Glucose metabolism in fish: a review

Area of Science:

• Comparative physiology
• Endocrinology
• Fish biology

Background:

• Teleost fish, comprising over 20,000 species, are crucial to aquatic ecosystems and human economies.
• Research on teleost carbohydrate metabolism has historically focused on salmonid and cyprinid species.
• Existing knowledge suggests many fish are glucose intolerant, but this is nuanced by diet and species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and update the understanding of carbohydrate and glucose metabolism in teleost fish.
• To incorporate recent molecular advancements into the study of fish metabolic pathways.
• To examine the influence of diet and hormones on glucose regulation in diverse fish species.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing existing research on fish carbohydrate metabolism.
• Analysis of studies utilizing molecular tools to investigate metabolic pathways.
• Integration of data on hormonal and dietary influences on glucose regulation.

Main Results:

• Carbohydrate and glucose metabolism in fish is more complex than previously assumed, varying significantly with diet.
• Herbivorous and omnivorous fish exhibit different glucose utilization patterns compared to carnivorous species.
• Molecular tools have provided deeper insights into the regulatory mechanisms of glucose metabolism.

Conclusions:

• Fish glucose metabolism is not universally characterized by intolerance; dietary adaptations play a key role.
• Further research using advanced molecular techniques is essential for a comprehensive understanding of fish metabolic processes.
• Updated knowledge of fish carbohydrate metabolism has implications for aquaculture and fisheries management.