Influence of α-MSH and ACTH on cortical bone remodelling in hypophysectomized rats

Abstract
Hypophysectomy increases both periosteal resorption and endosteal apposition along the femur diaphysis in rat. Administration of α-MSH decreased the periosteal resorption but had no effect on the endosteal apposition. ACTH had only minor effects on the endosteum. Thus, α-MSH and ACTH, in the doses used, have different effects on cortical bone in rat. The effect of α-MSH on cortical bone could be an effect of the hormone alone or by its stimulation of other factors.