PLEIOTROPIC PHYSIOLOGICAL-EFFECTS OF MUTA TION DI DETERMINING DIABETES-INSIPIDUS IN RATS

The main phenotypic expression of mutation di is diabetes insipidus, w hich is pronounced in didi homozygotes. Additional physiological trait s have been revealed that are associated with diabetes insipidus and a re accounted for by the pleiotropic effect of gene di on the function of the reproductive system, metabolism of neurotransmitters in brain, and central regulation of the stress response. In didi mutants, the ag e-related decrease in fertility is retarded, the increase in B monoami ne oxidase activity associated with aging is shifted to an older age, and the level of corticosteroid-binding globulin is decreased in young animals.