RESUMO
Ambrein is a major constituent of ambergris, the internal secretion of the sperm blue whale, has been studied for its ability to affect endocrine function, using growth hormone [GH], adrenocorticoropic hormone [ACTH], cortisol, thyroid stimulating [FSH], progesterone, testosterone and insulin as parameters in normal Wistar rats. Ambrein, administered daily [100 mg/kg, i.p] for 2.4 and 6 weeks elevated the levels of ACTH, cortisol, testosterone and insulin. However, no significant changes in the levels of GH, TSH, FSH, LH and progesterone were observed. The results indicate that chronic administration of ambrein could be responsible for modulating secretion of some hormones or may influence secondarily the endocrine organs responsible for their secretion. The role of ambrein in masculine sexual behaviour and glucose level is discussed