| Abstrakt: |
The compound 2-methyl-1: 2-bis-(3-pyridyl)-1-propanone (SU 4885) is now widely used in testing the reserve capacity of the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotrophic hormone. In the opinion of Liddle, Estep, Kendall, Jr., Carter Williams, Jr. & Townes (1959) it is a relatively specific inhibitor of 11β-hydroxylation. This view has been supported by experimental and clinical evidence. For instance, Grant (1960) showed that SU 4885 decreased 11β-hydroxylase activity, but left the 17- and 21-hydroxylating enzymes unaffected.Recently, however, results have accumulated that throw doubt on the specific inhibitory action of SU 4885 on 11β-hydroxylation. Loraine (1962) found that SU 4885 administered in high doses caused a decrease in steroid formation which was greater than inhibition of 11β-hydroxylation alone could account for. Venning, Lucis, Dyrenfurth & Beck (1962) showed that the drug increased the urinary excretion of pregnandiol. Grant (1960) raised the point that SU 4885 may have a direct stimulatory effect on |
