Changes in Thyroid Function Associated With Pregnancy in Golden Hamsters

Thyroxine (T₄) and triiodothyronine (T₃) utilization rates were calculated to determine the changes in thyroid function during pregnancy in the hamster, (Mesocricetus auratus). Turnover rates were calculated via the plasma disappearance technique using ¹²⁵I-labeled hormones. Serum T₄ and T₃ were measured by RIA. Measurements were made before pregnancy and on gestational days 1, 7, and 13. The T₄ utilization increased (p < 0.05) tenfold during the latter part of pregnancy, apparently due to an elevated volume of T₄ distribution. Serum T₄ levels did not change. Triiodothyronine utilization did not change during pregnancy, but T₃ levels decreased middle to late pregnancy. A lower level of T₃ entering the tissues in the latter part of pregnancy seems to be an energy-conserving adaptation in this species.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Biology

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Biology

Year

1992

Author dc:creator

• Walker, Lisa Harmon

Contributors dc:contributor

• Thomas Tomasi

• Biology

Statement dc:rights

• © Lisa Harmon Walker

Repository record dc:identifier

https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/194

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:bearworks.missouristate.edu:theses-1195