Effect of Pesticide on the Thyro-Gonadal System of Avian Species

Abstract

The purpose of the present investigation is to perform “Chemical adrenocortectomy†in pigeon by administration of O, - DDD to understand the direct influence of the adrenal cortex on the male gonadal physiology. O, - DDD, a selective adrenocorticolytic and antimetastatic agent in humans and dogs, is also used as a pesticide. In contrast to mammals, this drug induces high mortality rate in pigeons. Althrough O, - DDD treatment exerts no perceptible change in the adrenal cortex of pigeon, its degenerative action on the testes and reducing effect on the plasma T4 level are highly significant. It may be suggested from the above findings that the testicular atrophy is due to o, - DDD induced “chemical thyroidectomy†(through the withdrawal of T4) in pigeon.