INFLUENCE OF HORMONES UPON THE DISTRIBUTION OF ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE IN MOUSE ADRENAL CORTEX

Abstract

The effect of a variety of hormonal treatments upon the distribution of alkaline phosphatase in the adrenal cortex of BALB/c Jax male mice has been investigated. In the intact male mouse alkaline phosphatase is present in the reticularis, inner fasciculata and, to a lesser extent, in the outer fasciculata. Castration abolishes alkaline phosphatase from the reticularis and inner fasciculata; slight activity remains in the outer fasciculata. Testosterone propionate treatment restores the distribution of enzyme as seen in the normal male. Estradiol benzoate treatment in castrates results in the development of strong activity in the outer fasciculata. ACTH initiates strong alkaline phosphatase activity in the connective tissue and blood sinuses of all cortical zones and in the connective tissue of the medulla. FSH, LH, STH, thyroxine, progesterone, cortisone acetate and desoxycorticosterone acetate have no effect upon alkaline phosphatase in the castrate.