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Increases in plasma digitalis-like factor activity during insulin-induced hypoglycemia
S W Graves1, G Adler, C Stuenkel
1Division of Endocrinology and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.
Neuroendocrinology
|June 1, 1989
Summary
This study shows that insulin-induced hypoglycemia significantly increases digitalis-like factor (DLF) in healthy males. Both hypertonic saline and water loading further amplify this DLF response to insulin.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Digitalis-like factor (DLF) is a substance found throughout the body, with specific localization in the mammalian hypothalamus.
- The physiological role and regulation of DLF are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the response of serum DLF activity to insulin-induced hypoglycemia in normal males.
- To examine how hypertonic saline infusion or oral water loading affects DLF levels during insulin-induced hypoglycemia.
Main Methods:
- Eleven healthy males underwent insulin-induced hypoglycemia, with serum DLF activity monitored.
- Separate groups of males received either hypertonic saline infusion or oral water loading before insulin-induced hypoglycemia.
- Serum DLF levels were measured at baseline and at specific time points after insulin administration.
Main Results:
- Insulin-induced hypoglycemia caused a significant increase in serum DLF activity.
- Both hypertonic saline and water loading independently elevated serum DLF levels.
- In pre-conditioned groups, insulin administration led to a further substantial rise in DLF activity.
Conclusions:
- Insulin-induced hypoglycemia is a potent stimulus for increasing serum DLF.
- Osmotic challenges, such as hypertonic saline or water loading, can potentiate the DLF response to hypoglycemia.
- These findings suggest a complex interplay between glucose homeostasis, hydration status, and DLF regulation.