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Published on: August 14, 2013
Long term effects of neonatal hypoglycaemia on pancreatic function
1Molecular Neurobiology and Cell Biology Unit, Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology , Cochin-682022, Kerala , India.
Objectives:
Low blood glucose in neonates predisposes to long term pancreatic damage. We focused on evaluating long term consequences of neonatal hypoglycaemia in pancreatic functions.
Methods:
Pancreatic function was analysed by measuring DNA/protein synthesis, glucose/ATP uptake in vitro. Gene expression of Pdx1, NeuroD1, Pax4, Bax, caspase 3, Beclin1 were done. Muscarinic receptors were analysed by radio receptor assay.
Result:
Overall pancreatic efficiency was reduced in one-month-old rats exposed to neonatal hypoglycaemia as indicated by decreased DNA/protein synthesis and glucose/ATP uptake in vitro. Both Pdx1 and Neuro D1 expression were significantly down-regulated whereas Pax4 was up-regulated. Up-regulated Bax, caspase 3 and beclin1 along with reduced muscarinic receptors accounts for activation of cell death pathways.
Conclusion:
The study revealed a drastic reduction in pancreatic functions along with activation of apoptotic factors in one month old rats exposed to neonatal hypoglycaemia.
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