Modulation of lipids in the chick liver by "hypophysectomy" and replacement

The effect of "hypophysectomy" by means of surgical decapitation upon total lipids in developing chick embryo liver has been studied from 10.5 to 18.5 days of incubation. "Hypophysectomy" results in subnormal levels of hepatic lipid per whole liver throughout this period. Data expressed as mg lipid per 100 mg liver corrected wet weight also results in decreased liver lipid concentrations after day 14.5. In "hypophysectomized" embryos bearing pituitary transplants, liver total lipid amounts and concentrations are significantly increased toward normal values. The possible role(s) of the pituitary in the control of embryonic liver lipid metabolism is discussed.