2-Deoxy-D-glucose alters the cardio-respiratory parameters in anaesthetized rats

2-Deoxy-D-Glucose (2-DG), a synthetic analogue of glucose, is used as an anticancer agent either alone or in combination with other tumor treatment protocols. The present study was conducted to identify the systemic effects of 2-DG on parameters of vital importance. The blood pressure, ECG and respiratory excursions were recorded in anesthetized adult rats. At the end (after 120 min) of experiments, the plasma glucose and serum insulin levels were estimated. Injection of 2-DG (0.5 g/kg) produced an immediate increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and respiratory rate. The increase in MAP continued throughout the period of observation (120 min) and the maximal increase was seen at 90 min (27%). Whereas, the respiratory rate decreased by 17% at 15 min which decreased further to 37% by 120 min. Heart rate also decreased after 2-DG in a time-dependent manner and 40% decrease was observed at 120 min. Administration of 2-DG increased the plasma glucose level significantly (30%) as compared to saline control group but did not increase the serum insulin level. The results indicate that 2-DG alters the cardio-respiratory parameters by mechanisms unrelated to plasma insulin activity.