Vestibular modulation of thyroid function in forced cold water swimming stress induced wistar albino rats

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to provide experimental evidence for vestibular modulation of thyroid function in cold water swimming stress induced wistar albino rats and to suggest further research to recommend vestibular stimulation as an intervention for thyroid disorders. 24 healthy, adult male albino rats of wistar strain were used in the present study. Rats were forced to swim in the plastic tubs (height: 60 cm, diameter: 40 cm) containing cold water, maintained at 10°C. Depth of the water in the plastic tub was 30 cm. The swimming session lasted for 45 minutes daily. The middle ear cavity was irrigated with hot (40 degree centigrade) or cold (15 degree centigrade) water through a polyethylene tube for 15 days. Our study provides preliminary evidence that vestibular stimulation can effectively prevent stress induced changes in body weight and thyroid hormones secretion. We recommend translational research in this area to elucidate the mechanism of vestibular modulation of thyroid hormones secretion.