METABOLISM OF GLUCOSE AND STEROID FORMATION BY RAT ADRENALS IN VITRO

Abstract

The stimulation by ACTH of the formation of corticoids by rat adrenals in vitro is enhanced by the presence of glucose in the medium. Pyruvate and ribose also enhance the stimulation by ACTH, but to a lesser extent; acetate, acetoacetate, and β-hydroxybutyrate are without detectable influence. The following inhibitors decrease or abolish the effect of ACTH: iodoacetate, fluoride, arsenite, N2 (anaerobiosis), cyanide, azide, and dinitrophenol. A decrease in the sodium: potassium ratio of the medium also results in the inhibition of the stimulation of corticosteroid formation by ACTH. Fluoroacetate, trans-aconitate, malonate, and benzoate exert a less marked influence on the formation of corticoids. Epinephrine and insulin are without effect.