AGE AND SEX DIFFERENCES IN HORMONE CONTENT OF THE RABBIT HYPOPHYSIS

Abstract
Age and sex differences in hormone content of the rabbit hypophysis were studied by means of implantation into immature [female] guinea pigs. The [male] pituitary produced greater follicle stimulation and luteinization than the [female], and also greater stimulation of the adrenal cortex. Thyrotropic effects were equal. Pituitaries from 10-day-old rabbits produced thyroid and adrenal stimulation but no gonadotropic effects. At 15 and 21 days follicle stimulation was produced. Glands from 28-day and older rabbits produced both follicle stimulation and luteinization of a moderate degree. Thyrotropic effects were greater from pituitary tissue from immature rabbits. Glands from old [female] rabbits produced about the same degree of follicle stimulation and luteinization as young mature [female][female]; there was less thyroid stimulation and greater adrenal cortex stimulation.