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Glycerol turnover and oxidation in man
The Journal of Clinical Investigation
|June 1, 1972
Summary
Plasma glycerol turnover and oxidation were studied in lean and obese individuals. Glycerol
Area of Science:
- Metabolism
- Endocrinology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Plasma glycerol is a key metabolic intermediate.
- Understanding glycerol's role in energy metabolism is crucial for metabolic health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate plasma glycerol oxidation and turnover in lean and obese humans.
- To determine glycerol's contribution to gluconeogenesis under fed and starved states.
Main Methods:
- Long-term infusion of glycerol-(14)C in lean and obese subjects.
- Measurement of glycerol levels, turnover rates, and respiratory CO(2) production.
- Analysis of glycerol's contribution to gluconeogenesis and its relationship with FFA levels.
Main Results:
- Glycerol contributed less than 10% to total respiratory CO(2) across conditions.
- Glycerol turnover was higher in obese subjects and after starvation.
- A direct correlation was found between plasma glycerol levels and turnover (y = 1556x + 33.1).
- During starvation, glycerol was significantly converted to glucose, especially in obese individuals (79% vs 38% in lean).
Conclusions:
- Glycerol turnover and levels are influenced by obesity and starvation.
- Glycerol is a significant precursor for glucose production during starvation, particularly in obese individuals.
- Glycerol and protein adequately supply glucose precursors during catabolic states.
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