THE ANABOLIC EFFECTS OF CHORIONIC GONADOTROPIN IN NORMAL YOUNG MEN 123

Abstract

Chorionic gonadotrophin admd. to normal young adult males induced anabolic effects similar to those of testosterone propionate accompanied by increased excretion of urinary 17-ketosteroids. The effects in a eunuchoid with inactive testes were incomplete and indistinct. Such anabolic effects as occurred were distinctly less than those of 5 mg. of testosterone propionate daily. Thus the influence of chorionic gonadotrophin exerted chiefly through the testes. Minimal influences of other origin were not completely excluded. Accordingly in the early phases of adult life the testes may be considered sensitive to pituitary stimuli, above and beyond the level required for maintenance. Such sensitive testes are potential contributors to the regulation of variations in protein metabolism during adult life through the anabolic effects of secreted androgen. A standard procedure for ascertaining the reactivity of the testes under various conditions is suggested.