GIANT GROWTH OF RAT FETUSES PRODUCED EXPERIMENTALLY BY MEANS OF ADMINISTRATION OF HORMONES TO THE MOTHER DURING PREGNANCY

Abstract

Admn. of anterior pituitary growth hormone (free from endocrine contamination) to pregnant rats caused increased growth of fetuses, and prolongation of pregnancy 1-4 days in some instances. Fetuses were overwt. even if removed at the end of normal period of parturition, so overgrowth was not due merely to prolongation of pregnancy. Posterior pituitary, adrenals, testes, thymuses, parathyroids and islets of Langerhans of fetuses were heavier than normal. These changes are similar to those seen in giant litters of diabetic mothers. Gonadotropins, thyrotropin and ACTH produced less marked effects.