To evaluate the effects of endogenously secreted cortisol on mineral homeostasis and bone metabolism in cows, 4 ovariectomized Holstein cows were infused for 12 h with either an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) solution (0.5 mg/2 L isotonic NaCl solution per cow) or isotonic NaCl solution in a 2 2 crossover design. ACTH infusion stimulated cortisol secretion and
increased plasma cortisol concentrations for 18 h (P 0.001), leading to an elevated plasma glucose concentration until 36 h (P 0.001).