Effects of Removing the Area Postrema on Insulin and IGF-1 Responses
Author Information
Author(s): RENEE FORD, HUIQING LU, ZHENGBO DUANMU, TADEUSZ SCISLO, JOSEPH C. DUNBAR
Primary Institution: Wayne State University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The peripheral responses to insulin and IGF-1 are mediated, at least in part, via the central nervous system.
Conclusion
Insulin and IGF-1 entry into the CNS via the area postrema does not significantly contribute to the hypotensive response.
Supporting Evidence
- Insulin infusion in normal rats decreased MAP but increased HR and LSNA.
- APX rats showed a greater sensitivity to insulin-induced hypoglycemia.
- IGF-1 decreased MAP more in APX rats compared to normals.
Takeaway
When scientists removed a part of the brain called the area postrema from rats, they found that insulin and IGF-1 still worked to lower blood pressure, but the rats reacted differently than normal.
Methodology
Normal male Wistar rats were used to measure cardiovascular dynamics and sympathetic nerve activity after insulin and IGF-1 infusion, comparing normal and area postrema removed (APX) rats.
Limitations
The study was conducted on a specific strain of rats, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Normal male Wistar rats weighing between 285-320 grams.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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