THE ELECTROLYTE-EXCRETING ACTIVITY OF ADRENOCORTICAL SUBSTANCES

Abstract

Using the flame photometer for the detn. of electrolytes excreted in adrenalectomized rat urines, a method has been devised for the bioassay of adrenal cortical substances which is sensitive over a range from 6-60ug. of DCA equivalents. Cortisone, 17-OH corticosterone, corticosterone, and 11-dehydrocorticosterone differ qualitatively from DCA in this test. Pregnenolone has no effect on the variables studied, and lipo-adrenal extract has a DCA-like effect, but is not as marked an antidiuretic and Na retainer.