THE METABOLISM OF ADRENALECTOMIZED RATS

Abstract

The influence of extirpation of the adrenals on total metabolism was studied by the Haldane open circuit apparatus. Of 14 animals used, 10 were adrenalectomized; 177 determinations were made. Adrenalectomy decreased heat output 3 to 51% and lowered body temps. After removal of both adrenal glands there is evidently a reduction of about 25% in the total metabolism but without change in the ratio of carbohydrate to fat metabolism. In normal rats maintained on a restricted diet under similar temp. conditions, total metabolism is not reduced. After consuming carbohydrate food the adrenalectomized rat exhibits a R.Q. comparable to a normal animal. A rise in body temp. and metabolism was observed in acute adrenal insufficiency in 8 of the 10 animals.