A possible role for somatostatin in depression of insulin and glucagon levels during hemorrhage

Abstract

The hypothesis that depression of insulin and glucagon levels during rapid, acute hemorrhage is controlled by somatostatin was supported by hormonal changes measured in the cat. By 5 min of hemorrhage to 50 mmHg (1 mmHg = 133.322 Pa) arterial blood pressure, insulin and glucagon were severely depressed and somatostatin levels rose to 232% of basal levels. Insulin and glucagon suppression was maintained for the 30-min period of hemorrhage. Following return of the blood, somatostatin levels remained high and insulin and glucagon suppression was maintained. The data support, but do not prove, the hypothesis.