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Alanine turnover in normal and diabetic dogs
Hormone and Metabolic Research = Hormon- Und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones Et Metabolisme
|November 1, 1985
Summary
In diabetic dogs, alanine turnover correlated with alanine levels. Severe hyperglycemia significantly increased alanine levels and turnover, potentially fueling excessive glucose production.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Alanine metabolism plays a role in glucose homeostasis.
- Insulin deficiency in diabetes mellitus leads to metabolic dysregulation.
- Hyperglycemia is a hallmark of uncontrolled diabetes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between alanine turnover and concentration in normal and diabetic dogs.
- To examine how varying degrees of hyperglycemia affect alanine metabolism.
- To explore the potential contribution of alanine to accelerated gluconeogenesis in severe hyperglycemia.
Main Methods:
- Primed constant infusion of U-14C-alanine in normal and pancreatectomized dogs.
- Measurement of alanine levels and turnover rates.
- Correlation analysis between alanine parameters and blood glucose levels.
Main Results:
- In diabetic dogs, alanine levels and turnover rates were closely correlated.
- Mild hyperglycemia (glucose < 22 mmol/l) showed normal alanine fluxes and concentrations.
- Severe hyperglycemia (glucose > 25 mmol/l) resulted in markedly elevated alanine concentrations and fluxes (4-5 times normal).
Conclusions:
- Alanine production is a key determinant of alanine concentration in diabetic states.
- Severe hyperglycemia is associated with significantly increased alanine turnover and concentration.
- Elevated alanine transport from muscle to liver may contribute to accelerated gluconeogenesis in severely hyperglycemic diabetic animals.