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Change in endocrine pancreatic function in short-term diet restriction
K U Chu1, J Ishizuka, G J Poston
1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550.
Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)
|November 11, 1991
Summary
Short-term diet restriction in rats lowered plasma glucose and insulin. This dietary change also reduced the pancreas's dynamic insulin response, potentially impacting longevity.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolism
- Aging Research
Background:
- Dietary restriction is known to extend lifespan in various organisms.
- Lowered plasma glucose is a potential mechanism linking diet restriction to longevity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the short-term effects of diet restriction on the endocrine pancreas in rats.
- To understand how food intake impacts glucose and insulin regulation.
Main Methods:
- Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to either ad libitum feeding or 60% food restriction.
- Plasma glucose, insulin, and glucagon levels were measured.
- Isolated pancreatic perfusions assessed dynamic insulin release in response to glucose.
Main Results:
- Diet-restricted rats exhibited lower plasma glucose and insulin levels compared to controls.
- No significant difference in glucose or insulin was observed between fed and fasted rats within the diet-restricted group.
- A diminished second phase of insulin release was noted in diet-restricted rats during pancreatic perfusion.
Conclusions:
- Short-term diet restriction alters pancreatic insulin secretion dynamics.
- Reduced spermine content in the pancreas may be linked to impaired insulin release.
- These findings offer insights into the metabolic adaptations during dietary changes.