Some Effects of Hormones on Contractile Properties of Rat Tail Tendon Collagen

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Abstract
Some possible influences of the endocrine system on rat tail tendon collagen were investigated utilizing tendon contractability in concentrated salt solution as an indicator of the physiochemical properties of melted collagen. Hypo-physectomy and thyroidectomy, but not adrenalectomy, were associated with increased contractile force of tendons in 40% potassium iodide (KI). Hypercorticism or hyperthyroidism was likewise associated with increases in KI-induced contractile force. However, the effects of excess thyroid appeared to be mediated via the adrenals. The changes in tendon properties induced by hypophysectomy or corticosterone were similar to those which normally occur with advancing age.