Abstract
A method for focal dialysis of the adrenal cortex is introduced allowing determination of adrenal steroid local release rates in conscious, freely moving rats. Etomidate, an anaesthetic drug known to interfere with adrenal steroid synthesis, blocks not only corticosterone but also aldosterone and, to a lesser degree, progesterone release. Intra-adrenal application of the drug via the dialysis system for a defined time resulted in low release rates of corticosterone without inducing sedation of the animals or even anaesthesia. Remaining low steroid concentrations during the next 5 h after cessation of the dialysis with drug-containing medium indicate that the inhibition of steroid synthesis lasted for several hours. It is concluded that the inhibitory effect of etomidate on steroid biosynthesis can be explained on the basis of an interaction of the drug with adrenocortical enzymes without the involvement of hypothalamic or hypophyseal mechanisms.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
