Increase of beta-endorphin serum levels by human corticotropin-releasing factor does not affect beta-cell function in normal-weight men.
Numerous studies have shown a rise of blood sugar concentrations and serum levels of pancreatic polypeptides after pharmacological doses of beta-endorphin. We tested the yet unknown influence of physiological fluctuations in beta-endorphin serum levels on glucose homeostasis by stimulating the pituitary secretion with CRF. 100 micrograms of human CRF or saline solution were intravenously injected in ten healthy male subjects at least one week apart. beta-endorphin serum levels rose significantly after the injection of CRF, but there was no change in blood sugar concentrations or serum levels of glucagon or insulin at all. We conclude that only a pharmacological dose of beta-endorphin influences glucose homeostasis.
Ritter
M M
MM
Medizinische Klinik II, Klinikum Grosshadern, Universität München, Germany.
Richter
W O
WO
Schwandt
P
P
D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000502:physiology; D001835:Body Weight; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005934:Glucagon / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000097:blood; D007515:Islets of Langerhans / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D001615:beta-Endorphin / Q000097:blood*
D001786:Blood Glucose; D007328:Insulin; D001615:beta-Endorphin; D005934:Glucagon; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone