Effect of Heparin and Heparinoids on the Synthesis of Aldosterone and Corticosterone by the Rat Adrenal Gland

Abstract

The effect of heparin and heparinoid substances on the synthesis of steroids by the rat adrenal has been examined. Intravenous injection of these drugs provoked a significant decrease in the production of aldosterone but no change in that of corticosterone. The total amount of steroids remained essentially unchanged. The mechanism of this phenomenon is discussed. Heparin and heparinoid substances act selectively, i.e., they reduce the synthesis of aldosterone only, without decreasing the synthesis of other corticosteroids, an effect that suggests possible therapeutic applications. (Endocrinology74: 159, 1964)