Abstract
Conclusion
On the basis of these experiments carried out with rats, it is our conclusion, in agreement with other observers, that for animals of both sexes the female sex hormone (a) stunts the growth of young animals, (b) increases the density of the bone-shaft, (c) accelerates epiphyseal closure, (d) increases the percentage of bone-ash.
These postulates confirm the depressing effect of this hormone on the parathyroid glands; further confirmed by the greater response in this effect when female animals were used (Experiment I).
The male hormone, on the other hand, in both sexes (a) stunts the growth of the animal, (b) diminishes the density of the bone-shaft, (c) diminishes the percentage of bone-ash, (d) delays epiphyseal closure, (e) depresses slightly the blood calcium, but does not increase the serum inorganic phosphorus.
To summarize: The male sex hormone is rachitogenic; the female sex hormone is antirachitic. The use of the female hormone is suggested either alone or in conjunction with vitamin D in the treatment of either sex where there is overaction of the parathyroids.
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