Glucocorticoids and carbohydrate metabolism in hypothermic and hibernating hamsters.

In hibernating hamsters carbohydrate reserves are regulated and are in dynamic equilibrium. During "deep" hypothermia (Tb 7-8 degrees C) hamsters undergo a progressive hypoglycemia, depletion of liver glycogen, and death within 24 hours. Glucocorticoid treatment results in enhanced blood and liver carbohydrates, prolonged survival at Tb 7-8 degrees C, and enhanced thermogenic capacity leading to arousal.