Decreased phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase and catechol-O-methyltransferase activity in rabbit adrenal glands during pregnancy

Br J Pharmacol. 1976 Jul;57(3):413-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.1976.tb07682.x.

Abstract

1 Phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (PNMT) activity in adrenal gland was lower than the control values at day 24 of rabbit pregnancy and fell throughout the gestational period. 2 Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) activity during pregnancy and parturition followed a similar pattern to PNMT. 3 Adrenaline content of the adrenal gland declined significantly during the last few days of pregnancy but at parturition showed a tendency to return towards normal. 4 The biochemical mechanisms which result in a decline in PNMT and COMT activities and adrenaline concentration appear to be the consequence of modifications in endocrine gland secretion during pregnancy.

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Glands / enzymology*
  • Adrenal Glands / metabolism
  • Amines / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Catechol O-Methyltransferase / metabolism*
  • Epinephrine / metabolism
  • Female
  • Phenylethanolamine N-Methyltransferase / metabolism*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy, Animal*

Substances

  • Amines
  • Phenylethanolamine N-Methyltransferase
  • Catechol O-Methyltransferase
  • Epinephrine