Developmental Failure of the Pituitary in Amphibian Embryos Treated with Sugar

Abstract

A striking syndrome of abnormalities was obtained in embryos and larvae of the Pacific tree toad, Hyla regilla, by immersing late blastulae or beginning gastrulae, unremoved from the jelly, in a 10% soln. of sucrose for 14-20 hrs. at room temp. Abnormalities appeared in various combinations and to different degrees according to the length of treatment. Hypophyseal deficiency manifested itself in albinism, poor progress toward metamorphosis. The hypopituitary effects are described in some detail. It is indicated that the failure of the pituitary to develop normally caused the manifestations of hypopituitary function.