Hepatic sympathetic denervation potentiates glucagon-stimulated glycogenolysis and hyperinsulinaemia in the rat.
The influence of hepatic nerves on glucagon-stimulated hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia was studied in rats. Using microsurgical techniques, hepatic sympathectomy (resulting in approximately 80% reduction of liver noradrenaline content) or hepatic vagotomy was performed. Glucagon (10 micrograms/kg b.wt.) was injected i.v. one week after the operative procedure. Plasma levels of glucose and insulin rose more rapidly and to a higher level in rats subjected to hepatic sympathectomy than in sham-operated or non-operated control animals. In contrast, hepatic vagotomy did not influence the plasma glucose or insulin response to glucagon. In conclusion, our findings suggest a role for the hepatic sympathetic nerves in glucagon-stimulated glycogenolysis and insulin secretion in the rat.
Lindfeldt
J
J
Holmin
T
T
Ahrén
B
B
D000818:Animals; D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000032:analysis; D003714:Denervation; D005934:Glucagon / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006003:Glycogen / Q000378:metabolism; D007328:Insulin / Q000097:blood; D008099:Liver / Q000294:innervation*; D008297:Male; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains; D013268:Stimulation, Chemical; D013564:Sympathetic Nervous System / Q000502:physiology*
D001786:Blood Glucose; D007328:Insulin; D006003:Glycogen; D005934:Glucagon