Changes in glucocorticoids, IGF-I and thyroid hormones as indicators of nutritional stress and subsequent refeeding in Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus).

摘要: Physiological responses to changes in energy balance are tightly regulated by the endocrine system through glucocorticoids, IGF-I and thyroid hormones. Changes these hormones were studied eight captive female Steller sea lions that experienced food intake, body mass, composition, blood metabolites during summer winter. During a period of restriction, one group was fed reduced amounts Pacific herring another an isocaloric diet walleye pollock, after which both groups returned their pre-experimental diets herring. Cortisol negatively positively associated with mass periods restriction (mass loss increase cortisol decrease IGF-I) refeeding (body maintenance stable hormone concentrations compensatory growth linked winter). also correlated lipid lean respectively. Consequently, two likely make adequate biomarkers for nutritional stress lions, when combined provide indication energetic strategy (lipid vs catabolism) animals adopt cope nutrient intake. Unlike type age impacted hormonal responses, younger showing more intense stress. Thyroid hormones, however, not any physiological observed this study.