Active immunization against (Pro(3))GIP improves metabolic status in high-fat-fed mice

Ablation of gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) receptor signalling can prevent many of the metabolic abnormalities associated with dietary-induced obesity-diabetes. The present study was designed to assess the ability of active immunization against (Pro(3))GIP to counter metabolic dysfunction associated with diet-induced obesity in high-fat-fed mice.

Normal male Swiss NIH mice were injected (s.c.) once every 14 days for 98 days with complexed (Pro(3))GIP peptide, with transfer to a high-fat diet on day 21.

Active immunization against (Pro(3))GIP resulted in circulating GIP antibody production and significantly (p < 0.05 p < 0.01) reduced circulating blood glucose concentrations compared to high-fat control mice from day 84 onwards. Glucose levels were not significantly different from lean controls. The glycaemic response to i.p. glucose was correspondingly improved (p < 0.01) in (Pro(3))GIP-immunized mice. Furthermore, circulating and glucose-stimulated plasma insulin levels were significantly (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001) depressed compared to high-fat control mice. Liver triglyceride, pancreatic insulin and circulating LDL-cholesterol levels were also significantly reduced in (Pro(3))GIP-immunized mice. These changes were independent of any effects on food intake or body weight. The glucose-lowering effect of native GIP was annulled in (Pro(3))GIP-immunized mice consistent with the induction of biologically effective GIP-specific neutralizing antibodies.

These results suggest that immunoneutralization of GIP represents an effective means of countering the disruption of metabolic processes induced by high-fat feeding.