Histochemical observations on the adrenal gland of bat Vesperugo pipistrellus (Dobson)

The presence of delta 5-3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (delta 5-3 beta-HSDH), 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 11beta-HSDH), 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17beta-HSDH) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH) has been histochemically demonstrated in the zona glomerulosa, fasciculata and reticularis and also in the cortical cells that are found interspersed in the medulla of the adrenal gland of the bat, Vesperugo pipistrellus. The present study indicates that the adrenal cortex of the bat is capable of synthesizing corticosteroids and also sex steroids.