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[Raised plasma glucagon levels in obesity (author's transl)]
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|July 23, 1982
Summary
Obese patients exhibit elevated plasma glucagon levels, which persist even after weight loss. This suggests a potential glucagon resistance in addition to insulin resistance, particularly in those with high triglycerides and glucose intolerance.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Research
- Obesity Studies
Context:
- Obesity is associated with metabolic dysregulation, including altered hormone levels.
- Hyperglucagonaemia may contribute to the pathophysiology of obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Purpose:
- To investigate basal plasma glucagon levels in grossly obese patients.
- To assess the impact of weight reduction and glucose-stimulated hyperinsulinaemia on glucagon levels.
- To examine glucagon levels in obese patients with hypertriglyceridaemia and glucose intolerance.
Summary:
- Grossly obese patients (n=129) showed significantly higher basal plasma glucagon levels (179 pg/ml) compared to normal weight controls (109 pg/ml).
- Weight reduction (9.1 kg) and reduced glucose-stimulated hyperinsulinaemia did not normalize these elevated glucagon levels.
- A subgroup with hypertriglyceridaemia and glucose intolerance displayed even higher glucagon levels (198 pg/ml), suggesting potential glucagon resistance.
Impact:
- Findings indicate persistent hyperglucagonaemia in obesity, independent of weight loss.
- Suggests a potential dual resistance (glucagon and insulin) in specific obese patient subgroups.
- Highlights the need for further research into glucagon's role in obesity and metabolic syndrome.