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Streptozotocin induced hyperglycemia in the axolotl

Pernille Lajer Sørensen1, Anita Dittrich1, Henrik Lauridsen1

  • 1Comparative Medicine Lab, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark.

Developmental Dynamics : an Official Publication of the American Association of Anatomists
|July 23, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Researchers explored using axolotls to study diabetes by inducing hyperglycemia with streptozotocin (STZ). While STZ successfully induced a diabetes-like state, variability and lack of observed regeneration necessitate further research for this model.

Area of Science:

  • Comparative physiology
  • Regenerative medicine
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia due to beta cell dysfunction or loss, with no cure.
  • Existing animal models for beta cell regeneration research have limitations.
  • New models are needed to study endogenous beta cell regeneration pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) as a novel model for studying beta cell regeneration.
  • To establish a protocol for inducing hyperglycemia in axolotls using streptozotocin (STZ) to mimic diabetes.

Main Methods:

  • Tested five streptozotocin (STZ) administration protocols in axolotls.
  • Utilized glucose tolerance tests to identify the most effective STZ protocol.
  • Monitored blood glucose levels, performed pancreatic histology, and evaluated systemic effects.

Main Results:

  • Successfully induced a hyperglycemia-like state in axolotls using STZ.
  • Observed variability in animal responses, indicating a need for protocol refinement or larger sample sizes.
  • Noted spontaneous normalization of blood glucose levels over time, but no histological evidence of pancreatic regeneration.

Conclusions:

  • STZ can induce a transient diabetes-like state in axolotls.
  • The axolotl shows potential as a model for diabetes research, but further optimization is required.
  • Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms of spontaneous glucose normalization and potential regenerative processes.
Keywords:
Ambystoma mexicanumdiabetesinsulinpancreasregenerationβ cell

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