Effects of hydrocortisone on biogenic amine levels in the hypothalamus.

Implants of hydrocortisone acetate (HCA), cholesterol or empty tubing were placed in the hypothalamus of rats. Corticoid implants elevated serotonin levels in the basomedial hypothalamus compared to the other two groups, but norepinephrine levels were unchanged. Adrenal and serum cortcosterone, as well as adrenal weight, were lower in animals with hydrocortisone implants. These data support the hypothesis that hypothalamic serotonin is involved in negative feedback control of adrenal steroid secretion. Biogenic amines in the medial hypothalamus were determined at 30 days in rats neonatally treated with HCA. Both norepinephrine and serotonin levels were elevated significantly in the treated group in comparison to controls, but dopamine levels failed to change.