Comparative Effects of Estradiol, Progesterone and Testosterone on The Level of Rat Serum Ceruloplasmin

Ceruloplasmin, a serum alpha-2-globulin with oxidase activity, plays an important role in the metabolism of iron. Following the treatment of animals with the daily doses o 1.6 mg/kg estradiol, 6 mg/kg progesterone and 8 mg/kg testosterone for 15 days, serum ceruloplasmin concentration was elevated 57, and 22 percent respectively. Administration of estradiol for 30, 45 or 60 days led to an increase in the enzyme activity by 92, 77 and 63 percent respectively. Animals receiving either progesterone or testosterone for longer period up to 60 days did not show any significant changes in their serum ceruloplasmin levels. The effects of these steroid hormones on ceruloplasmin activity have been discussed.