[Effect of somatotropic hormone on insulin secretion in pups]

The effects of the administration of bovine somatotropic hormone (bSTH) in pups were investigated. The daily profile after a dose of bSTH injected subcutaneously showed an increase in serum immunoreactive insulin (IRI) with serum glucose levels within the normal range. Free fatty acids were also elevated. After a second bSTH administration, the response to an intravenous glucose load caused marked elevation of serum IRI while serum glucose remained similar to control values. The results are compatible with a response resembling that of adult dogs submitted to similar bSTH administration of short duration. The hyperinsulinemia thus induced may be a key factor in maintenance of normoglycemia.