Effects of Metformin and AICAR on Melatonin in Ewes
Author Information
Author(s): Menassol Jean-Baptiste, Tautou Claire, Collet Armelle, Chesneau Didier, Lomet Didier, Dupont Joëlle, Malpaux Benoît, Scaramuzzi Rex J
Primary Institution: Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements UMR85, INRA, Nouzilly, France
Hypothesis
Can central activation of AMPK disrupt the circadian machinery and alter melatonin secretion in ewes?
Conclusion
The study suggests that AMPK may influence melatonin secretion amplitude without affecting insulin levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Both metformin and AICAR reduced the amplitude of melatonin secretion.
- The timing of melatonin secretion was not affected by either drug.
- AICAR significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated ACC in the paraventricular nucleus and pineal gland.
Takeaway
This study looked at how two drugs, metformin and AICAR, affect melatonin levels in sheep. They found that these drugs can change how much melatonin is released, which might affect the sheep's reproductive cycles.
Methodology
Nineteen ewes were injected with metformin or AICAR and their melatonin levels were measured in a controlled environment.
Limitations
The study did not observe significant direct activation of AMPK after treatment, which may limit the conclusions about its role.
Participant Demographics
Nineteen multiparous ewes housed in individual pens.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001 for metformin, p < 0.01 for AICAR
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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