Metabolism of Glucose in Resting and Working Rats

Abstract

Different loads of C14-glucose were given by continuous intravenous infusion into anesthetized rats over a period of 12 hours. Glycosuria was induced in all of the animals. Non- working rats were compared with rats subjected to faradic stimulation of either one or both hind legs. The urinary excretion and the hepatic storage of isotopic glucose were suppressed by muscle work; to the greatest extent when both legs were working. Muscle work caused a marked increase in the oxidation of isotopic glucose, an accompanying rise in the expiration of non-isotopic CO2 and a decrease in respiratory quotient.