Calcitonin stimulates gluconeogenesis in fasted rats

The effect of calcitonin (CT) on gluconeogenesis was studied in fasted rats. The subcutaneous administration of CT (80 MRC mU/100 g BW) produced a significant increase in serum glucose concentration and a corresponding decrease in serum lactic acid, free fatty acid and alanine concentrations. These alterations were dose-dependent (20 and 40 MRC mU/100g BW). On the other hand, the serum glucose concentration was significantly elevated by a single intraperitoneal injection of alamine (100 mg/100 g BW). This increase was markedly enhanced by CT administration, and the appreciable effect was observed at a dose of 20 MRC mU/100 g BW. Also, the significant increase in serum glucose concentration caused by the injections of lactate, pyruvate. and alpha-ketoglutarate (100mg/100 g BW, respectively) was further enhanced by CT administration. The present results indicate that CT stimulates gluconeogenesis in fasted rats.