Removal and mobilization of individual free fatty acids in diabetic dogs

Abstract

Gas chromatographic analysis of individual free fatty acids showed elevated concentrations of the five major fatty acids in the arterial blood of acutely diabetic dogs. The percentage contributions of oleic and linoleic acids were also elevated. Insulin lowered both elevated concentrations and percentages. All major fatty acids were released into the epigastric vein from adipose tissue. Total fatty acid composition of adipose tissue was similar in normal and diabetic dogs. Adipose tissue free fatty acid composition was similar to that of blood and dissimilar to composition of total fatty acids. Myocardium failed to remove oleic acid in diabetic dogs unless insulin was administered. Consistent net removal by the liver of palmitoleic, stearic, and oleic acids occurred in diabetic animals.