RESPONSE OF WEEK OLD SQUIRREL PUPS TO MELATONIN AND 5-METHOXYTRYPTAMINE INJECTION

Considerable evidence indicates that methoxyindoles do influence the g onadal system in adult F. pennanti, however nothing is known about its effect in neonates. Hence, this study was planned to determine whethe r neonatal melatonin (aMT) and 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT) injection ca n bring changes in gonad and body weight. Injection of aMT on eighth d ay of post-partum age, resulted in 50% decrease in body weight, while 5-MT was ineffective. Treatment with aMT and 5-MT had inhibited ovary, uterus and thyroid weight, while an increased pineal and adrenal weig ht was noted. Plasma aMT level increased significantly in both aMT and 5-MT treated pups, while estradiol level was very low. This suggest t hat aMT could not dissociate its inhibitory effect on growth as well a s ovary when injected after critical period.