A fast in vitro effect of glucocorticoids on hepatic lipolysis

A fast and direct effect of dexamethasone on liver metabolism is reported. In the perfused rat liver, addition of dexamethasone directly to the perfusate is followed by an increase in the level of free fatty acids (FFA) and glycerol. These effects of dexamethasone are evident within 30 minutes of hormone administration. The response to dexamethasone in livers from normal and adrenalectomized rats is similar. While dexamethasone and glucagon both had a lipolytic effect, these effects are not additive.