THE LIBERATION OF ADRENIN AND SYMPATHIN INDUCED BY STIMULATION OF THE HYPOTHALAMUS

Abstract

Using the denervated nictitating membrane of the anesthetized cat as an indicator, the liberation of circulating adrenin and sympathin in response to stimulation of the hypothalamus has been demonstrated. The prolonged latent period and delay in maximal contraction of the denervated membrane induced by these substances, indicates that they are not responsible for the initial effects of hypothalamic stimulation upon other organs. Their role in augmenting and prolonging hypothalamic effects induced by direct nervous connections is discussed and it is concluded that the role of the hypothalamus in visceral innervation and emotional excitement is effected both by direct nervous influences and by humoral substances for whose release these nervous influences have been responsible.