The possible induction of diabetes insipidus in chicks by regulated light regimes

Diabetes insipidus is caused by the lack of water reabsorption in the kidneys. Water reabsorption is regulated by the antidiuretic hormone. Experimentation has resulted in the concept that the production of the avian antidiuretic hormone (arginine vasotocin) occurs in the neurosecretory nuclei of the hypothalamus. This hormone is stored in the posterior pituitary until its release is stimulated by light. The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of three light regimes (i.e., (1) 24-hours light, (2) 12~hours light: 12-hours darkness, and (3) 24-hours darkness) upon the production of diabetes insipidus in cockerels measured by water consumption. The results of the experiment indicated that there was a significantly greater water consumption in the constant light and constant darkness regimes. The production of an extremely watery diarrhea coupled with the differences in water consumption in these two regimes led to the conclusion that diabetes insipidus can be produced by altering the light regime of birds.