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The glyoxylate cycle: does it function in the dormant or active bear?

J D Jones1, P Burnett, P Zollman

  • 1Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. jd.jones@mayo.edu

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part B, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
|December 10, 1999
PubMed
Summary

The glyoxylate cycle is not active in dormant black bears, challenging previous research. This finding suggests bears do not utilize this metabolic pathway for energy during hibernation.

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Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Animal Physiology
  • Metabolic Research

Background:

  • Dormant black bears rely on body fat for energy.
  • The glyoxylate cycle (GC) could potentially redirect lipid metabolism for biosynthesis.
  • Previous studies suggested GC activity in hibernating bears.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and activity of the glyoxylate cycle in dormant black bears.
  • To determine if GC marker enzymes are present in bear liver and kidney.
  • To re-evaluate the metabolic strategies of bears during hibernation.

Main Methods:

  • Enzyme assays for isocitrate lyase and malate synthetase in liver and kidney tissue.
  • Histological examination of liver peroxisome numbers.
  • Comparison of active and dormant bear physiology.

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Main Results:

  • GC marker enzymes (isocitrate lyase, malate synthetase) were undetectable in active or dormant bear liver and kidney.
  • Liver peroxisome numbers were similar between active and dormant bears.
  • Brown fat was not observed via light microscopy in dormant bears.

Conclusions:

  • The glyoxylate cycle is likely absent or inactive in dormant black bears.
  • This challenges prior reports suggesting GC involvement in bear hibernation.
  • Bear fat metabolism during hibernation may not involve the glyoxylate cycle.