THE EFFECTS OF LOCAL INJECTION OF SOMATOTROPHIC HORMONE IN SMALL DOSES INTO THE ORAL MUCOSA OF YOUNG ADULT RATS

THE stimulating effects of somatotrophic hormone on general and specific organ growth and weight retention has been widely studied in both intact and hypophysectomized animals.1 ' 2, 3 This growth stimulation is thought to be the result of increased protein retention and anabolism.4 ' 5 6 The general anabolic effect of the hormone may be altered by dietary deprivation, espe-cially restrictions-in dietary proteins, and may then act only on selective tissues such as bone and cartilage.8 The local stimulating effects of somatotrophic hormone on connective tissue have been described as an increase in fibroblasts and collagen, as well as an increase in granulation tissue around areas of inflammation.9 ' 10, 11 In-creased thickness of the skin with increase in the size of hair follicles has also been reported following local injection of growth hormone.12 The present study was undertaken in order to observe the effects of local injection of small doses of growth hormone on the oral mucosa of young adult male rats both in vivo and in vitro