Carbohydrate metabolism in the chronically uremic rat

The sub-totally nephrectomized chronically uremic rat has been found to have significantly increased hepatic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and increased lipogenesis and glycoportein synthesis. Increased conversion of 14-C-D-glucose to 14-CO2, and increased plasma free fatty acid levels were also observed. The metabolic significance of these findings has been discussed, particularly with respect to the importance of the pentose shunt in this model. The influence of reduced diet intake, resulting from uremic anorexia, has been considered in light of changes observed. It is concluded that decreased food intake alone is unlikely to be responsible for the altered glucose utilization evident in this model.