RESUMO
We have performed a study about the ultra-structure of the suprarenal cortex in 40 male Wistar rats whose weights oscillated between 200 and 250 grams. The animals were divided in three groups: control group (untouched animals or with simulated operation); experimental group I (animals sacrificed a month after the operation); and experimental group II (animals sacrificed two months after the operation). In the experimental animals, we have performed the bilateral extirpation of the piriform area. We have found a progressive decrease of the lipidic droplets (and of the steroidogenesis) and an increase in the mitochondrial alterations in the cells of fasciculate layer, and also in the cells of reticular layer; what indicates the existence of a decrease in the elaboration of cortex-suprarenal hormones. These results suggest us that the piriform area stimulates the elaboration of hormones by the suprarenal cortex.