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Elevated neuropeptide Y gene expression and release during hypoglycemic stress
1Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, St. Louis University Health Sciences Center, MO 63104, USA.
Peptides
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) may contribute to high blood pressure caused by insulin. Insulin increased NPY levels and gene expression, suggesting a role in this hypertensive response.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Neuropeptide Y (NPY) mediates sympathetic nerve stimulation-induced vasoconstriction.
- Insulin-induced hypoglycemia increases sympathetic output and arterial pressure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of NPY in the hypertensive response to insulin.
- To examine insulin's effects on NPY gene expression, tissue content, and release.
Main Methods:
- Rats were injected subcutaneously with insulin.
- Plasma NPY immunoreactivity (NPYir), adrenal and neuronal NPY mRNA, and adrenal NPYir were measured.
Main Results:
- Insulin injection caused an immediate increase in plasma NPYir.
- Delayed increases in adrenal and neuronal NPY mRNA and adrenal NPYir were observed.
Conclusions:
- Neuropeptide Y may play a role in the hypertension associated with insulin administration.
- NPY signaling is implicated in the sympathetic and cardiovascular adjustments to insulin hypoglycemia.