A Non Adrenal-Mediated Action of AGTH on the Preputial Glands

Abstract

Expts. on adrenalectomized and ovariectomized rats indicate that ACTH stimulates growth of the preputial glands, even in the absence of both steroid-producing endocrines. It is concluded that ACTH possesses actions which are not mediated through either the adrenals or the gonads and which do not even depend upon the simultaneous presence in the body of adrenal or gonadal hormones. It remains to be seen whether this action is due to the corticotropin itself or to some contamination in the ACTH preparation used.