Adrenocortical steroids function tests

Secretion of adrenocortical steroids is controlled by the pituitary release of corticotropin (ACTH). Secretion of the salt-retaining hormone aldosterone is primarily under the influence of angiotensin. Corticotropin has some actions that do not depend on its effect on adrenocortical secretion. However, its pharmacologic value as an anti-inflammatory agent and its use in testing adrenal function depend on its secretory action. Its pharmacology is discussed in Chapter 37 and is reviewed only briefly here. 

In the safety pharmacology protocol, the interaction of multiple endocrine systems in test animals is addressed. As discussed by Harvey (1996) and by Harvey and Everett (2003), effects on adrenocortical function are frequently found in toxicology studies, sometimes related to enzyme induction and effects on steroid biosynthesis (Loose et al. 1983, Nebert and Russell 2002, Weber et al. 1993). Test procedures in animals are required when there is a reason for concern. Frequently however the effects observed are due to stress rather than specific interaction with the target organ, and may involve effects on catecholamine release from the adrenal medulla (Tucker 1996). Recently, much new evidence has been accumulated from the testing of industrial chemicals with effects on adrenal steroid biosynthesis (Harvey and Johnson 2002). 

Steroid hormones (Section 21.8) are produced by the adrenal cortex and the gonads (testes in males, ovaries in females). The adrenocortical hormones include glucocorticoids, which affect carbohydrate metabolism, modulate inflammatory reactions, and are involved in reactions to stress. The mineralocorticoids control the level of excretion of water and salt by the kidneys. If the adrenal cortex does not function adequately, one result is Addison s disease, characterized by hypoglycemia, weakness, and increased susceptibility to stress. This disease is eventually fatal unless it is treated by administration of mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids to make up for what is missing. The opposite condition, hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex, is frequently caused by a tumor of the adrenal cortex or of the... 

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