Effects of inhibition of thyroid function and of cold on melatonin synthesis and porphyrin content in the harderian glands of male syrian hamsters, Mesocricetus Auratus

Gerald R. Buzzell, Zilian Chen, Mary K. Vaughan, Russel J. Reiter

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

1. 1. Indole metabolism and porphyrin content of the Harderian glands of the male Syrian hamster were measured as functions of drug-induced hypothyroidism and exposure to cold conditions. 2. 2. Harderian gland N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity was reduced from control levels by hypothyroidism induced by methimazole; exposure to cold had no effect on NAT activity. 3. 3. Immunoreactive melatonin in the Harderian glands was unaffected by the state of thyroid secretion. However, immunoreactive melatonin content declined after 180 and 270 min, at 4°C, suggesting that Harderian gland melatonin may be involved in thermoregulation. 4. 4. Porphyrin content of the Harderian glands was not affected by either thyroid secretion or cold.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)427-429
Number of pages3
JournalComparative Biochemistry and Physiology -- Part A: Physiology
Volume94
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1989

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physiology

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