Effect of Intravenous Amino Acids on Plasma Non-Esterified Fatty Acids.

Abstract

Intravenous infusion of 10% protein hydrolysate in 6 normal subjects induced precipitous falls in non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentration in peripheral venous blood. The major drop occurred within 30 minutes after the start of the infusion, with a return toward baseline NEFA values 60 to 120 minutes after cessation of the infusion. Concurrently with the fall in NEFA concentration, venous blood glucose differences increased significantly. Similar results, but with a rise in capillary and venous glucose concentration, were obtained when 5% L-arginine monohydrochloride was infused in 2 normal subjects. The results suggest that the NEFA-lowering effects of parenterally administered amino acids may be mediated wholly or in part by an induced increase in rate of glucose utilization. Other possible mechanisms are discussed.