EFFECT OF SYNTHETIC HUMAN 1,39-CORTICOTROPHIN ON BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVEL IN MICE

Abstract

ABSTRACT The hypoglycaemic action of synthetic human 1,39-corticotrophin was determined in mice and its effectiveness compared with highly purified porcine corticotrophin. Synthetic human 1,39-corticotrophin (0.01 mg = 1.0 IU) and porcine corticotrophin (1.0 IU) induced a transient hypoglycaemia. After the administration of the porcine corticotrophin the decrease in the blood glucose concentration was somewhat more marked and prolonged. Adrenocortical activity was not necessary for the development of hypoglycaemia. In adrenalectomized mice, dexamethasone substitution by increasing the initial blood glucose content, made the effect more pronounced. Pretreatment with corticotrophin reduced the extent of the alloxan-induced transitory hyperglycaemia. On the other hand, it did not influence the high blood glucose values in manifest alloxan diabetic animals. It is possible that corticotrophin induces hypoglycaemia through insulin release. This is an extra-adrenal effect of corticotrophin as it is also observed in adrenalectomized mice.