FURTHER STUDIES OF THE KINETICS OF GLUCOSE UTILIZATION. I. A NEW METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS*

Abstract

Evidence is presented to show that the extreme variation in rate constants for blood glucose disappearance reported by different laboratories is due to the use of an incorrect equation and/or an incorrect method of data analysis. It is demonstrated that graphic (semi-log) methods are too insensitive to be used to justify equations describing blood glucose disappearance. The correct equation is shown to be one of exponential form containing an added constant term which in the normal subject is significantly less than the fasting level of blood glucose. A new method of data analysis (slope analysis) is described which results in the same specific rate constant, K, regardless of the equation employed. This method is made practical by the introduction of a mechanical slope reader which eliminates excessive calculations.