Glucagon and insulin release from the allografted canine pancreas

Six previously pancreatectomized dogs were transplanted with duct-ligated, pancreatic allografts. Glucagon and insulin levels in the venous outflow from the graft and in the systemic circulation were determined during the first 60 minutes after transplantation. Two of the dogs were subjected to L-arginine stimulation 5 days after transplantation and the glucagon levels in the venous outflow from the graft were determined. The glucagon and insulin concentrations increased rapidly after transplantation, describing a biphasic curve. In response to L-arginine stimulation, an increased glucagon release was observed.