Effects of a Sulfated Mucopolysaccharide (R01-8307) on Zona Glomerulosa Width and Steroid Production by the Rat Adrenal Cortex

Abstract

Heparin and a semisynthetic mucopolysaccharide (R01-8307) cause a fall in aldosterone production by both the human and rat adrenal, and narrowing of zona glomerulosa width in the rat. We have shown in studies of R01-8307-treated rats that the fall in aldosterone production precedes histological changes in the zona glomerulosa. Corticosterone production was not altered, suggesting that pituitary adrenocorticotropin production and the function of the inner cortical zones were not affected. Direct addition of R01-8307 to incubating rat adrenal quarters did not alter either aldosterone or corticosterone production.