Increased Adrenal δ 5 -3/ β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase in Vitamin A-Deficient Cockerels ∗

Abstract

Summary

Mild vitamin A deficiency in SCWL cockerels increased δ⁵-3 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the adrenal cortices and decreased the enzyme in the Leydig cells of the testis. The vitamin A deficiency produced significantly larger combs and testes, increased spermatozoa maturation, and reduced bursa of Fabricius size. The increase in adrenal enzyme may account for the testicular effects observed.