Accumulation of glucocorticoids in regenerating areas of limbs of the newt, Notophthalmus viridescens.

Evidence is presented that regenerating portions of newt limbs preferentially accumulate 3H-labelled exogeneous cortisol and corticosterone. The ability of such regions to accumulate glucocorticoids is maximal about seven days after amputation and is abolished by interrupting the spinal nerves innervating the limb. Either hypophysectomy or ablation of interrenal tissue is without marked effect. The accumulation effect is not shown by aldosterone, testosterone, glucose, cholesterol, or leucine but estradiol does accumulate to a somewhat lesser extent than do the glucorticoids examined.