Effect of fetal hypoxia and hyperoxia on growth and functional activity of the adrenal cortex

• DOI: 10.1007/bf00785693
• Publication Date: 2004-12-11T14:16:44Z
• Authors: M. G. Nemets; I. S. Tarasova
• Keywords: Hyperoxia; Hypoxia

The content of lipids, cholesterol, and ascorbic acid in the adrenal cortex was investigated in rabbit fetuses developing under conditions of normal gestation and during exposure in the last third of pregnancy to hypoxia and hyperoxia. During exposure to hypoxia (of moderate degree) activation of the adrenal cortex was reflected by a marked decrease in the content of lipids, cholesterol, and ascorbic acid. The total weight of the fetal muscle mass was increased under these circumstances. During exposure to hyperoxia the adrenal cortex was inactivated, as reflected in a marked increase in the content of the above-named substances. The total weight of the fetal muscle mass was reduced.