THE OXIDATION-REDUCTION POTENTIAL OF THE THYROID FOLLICLE IN NORMAL AND EXPERIMENTAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

The aerobic oxidation-reduction potential of the colloid and of the thyroid cells was detd., using indicators in microdissection expts. and supravitally. In the thyroid gland of the normal white rat, the oxidation-reduction potential of the thyroid cells is above +0.050 volt, and in the colloid about[long dash]0.200 volt. In glands activated by cold or by injn. of thyreotrophic hormone of the pituitary gland the oxidation-reduction potential of the colloid rises to the same level as in the cells (+0.050 volt). The oxidation-reduction potential of the thyroid cells and of the colloid of activated glands is lowered under the action of KCN to[long dash]0.200 volt. Thiourea acts in vitro and in vivo, lowering the potential of the thyroid cells and of the colloid of activated glands to[long dash]0.200 volt. Para-aminophenylsulfamide injected into the animal does not change the oxidation-reduction potential of the thyroid cells.