Effects of V.M.H. lesions on plasma insulin in the goose

The effects of bilateral electrolytic lesions of the ventromedial hypothalamus (V.M.H.) were examined in male geese. In addition to the known effects (hyperphagia, obesity and liver steatosis), V.M.H. lesions slightly increased plasma insulin level in the fasting and the fed state and largely enhanced insulin levels observed during an oral glucose and amino acid load. Therefore, V.M.H. lesions potentiate insulin release which may in turn participate in the development of hyperphagia and fattening in the goose as in mammals.