Glucocorticoid receptor gene expression in rat pituitary gland intermediate lobe following ovariectomy

Using hybridization techniques and Northern blots we have identified a approximately 6.5 kb glucocorticoid receptor mRNA species in rat pituitary intermediate lobe. Glucocorticoid receptor mRNA concentrations, which are barely detectable or undetectable in normal animals, were greatly increased following ovariectomy. This ovariectomy-induced increase in glucocorticoid receptor mRNA content of the intermediate lobe, which was confirmed by in situ hybridization experiments, could be reversed by 17 beta-estradiol administration.