Degranulation of Beta Cells of Rat's Pancreas by Glucose Correlated with Alterations in Glucose Tolerance.

Abstract

The beta cells of the rat''s pancreas were degranulated by means of a single intracardiac injn. of glucose if 3 g. per kg. or higher concns. were used. Complete regranulation of the beta cells did not follow for 48 hrs. after the single injn. During the degranulated state the rats were found to have daily glycosuria, elevated fasting blood sugars, and diabetic types of glucose tolerance curves. The addition of 3 units of crystalline zinc insulin per g. of injd. glucose did not prevent degranulation of the beta cells because of a lag in the effect of the injd. insulin and the consequent production of a hyperglycemia. Repeated injns. of glucose prolonged the recovery period of the beta cells.