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Soy protein, casein, and zein regulate histidase gene expression by modulating serum glucagon
Armando R Tovar1, Claudia Ascencio, Nimbe Torres
1Departamento de Fisiología de la Nutrición, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, México City DF 14000, México.
American Journal of Physiology. Endocrinology and Metabolism
|October 12, 2002
Summary
Dietary protein intake influences histidase (Hal) gene expression. High protein diets, particularly casein and soy, increase Hal activity and mRNA levels by altering serum glucagon concentrations in rats.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Glucagon is a potential regulator of histidase (Hal) gene expression.
- The relationship between dietary protein and serum glucagon's effect on Hal activity is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between hepatic Hal activity and mRNA levels.
- To examine the impact of dietary protein type and amount on plasma glucagon and insulin concentrations.
- To determine if serum glucagon concentration correlates with protein intake and Hal expression.
Main Methods:
- Rats were fed diets with 18% or 50% casein, isolated soy protein, or zein for 10 days.
- A restricted feeding schedule of 6 hours daily was employed.
- Hepatic Hal activity, Hal mRNA concentration, and plasma glucagon/insulin levels were measured.
Main Results:
- Higher Hal activity and mRNA levels were observed in rats fed 50% casein or soy diets.
- Rats fed 50% zein showed intermediate Hal activity compared to other groups.
- Hal activity significantly correlated with serum glucagon concentrations, which were linked to protein intake.
Conclusions:
- Dietary protein type and quantity modulate hepatic Hal activity and gene expression.
- Serum glucagon concentration plays a key role in mediating the effects of protein intake on Hal.
- These findings highlight the intricate link between diet, hormones, and metabolic gene regulation.