Metabolic consequences of fasting in old lean and obese Zucker rats

The effects of fasting on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and plasma insulin and glucagon levels were compared in lean and obese Zucker rats. Sixteen-month-old female and male rats were fasted for periods of 2, 4, 6 and 12 days. Fasting produced significant decreases in hepatic rates of lipid, cholesterol, and glycogen synthesis, as well as circulating levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, phospholipids, and insulin. Significant increases in hepatic lipid levels and serum free fatty acids were noted. When compared to lean rats, obese rats had elevated rates of hepatic lipid and glycogen synthesis, hepatic lipid and glycogen stores, serum triglycerides, cholesterol, phospholipids, and plasma insulin. Lean rats had higher plasma glucagon levels. Sex differences in several parameters were observed. Females demonstrated higher levels of lipid and cholesterol synthesis and serum free fatty acids, whereas serum cholesterol levels and hepatic glycogen stores were higher in males. Following a 12-day fast, carcass fat and protein content were decreased in both lean and obese rats, but the obese animals maintained an obese body composition. It is concluded that fasting results in qualitatively similar metabolic and hormonal changes in both lean and obese rats, but that abnormalities in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism persist in obese rats even after a 12-day fast.