Insulin and the pituitrin ‘fat liver’

Abstract

(1924) (2) have shown that in depancreatised dogs also the effect on lipa3mia is very rapidly developed ("within a few hours"), although the effect on the liver-fat is not so prompt. This paper records experiments made to obtain more light on the interpretation of these facts, by investigating whether insulin modifies the action of pituitrin in producing fatty livers. As in the previous work, rabbits of various body and liver weights were used, with similar feeding and general management. Each separate batch of pituitrin used (Parke Davies and Co.) was tested to ensure that it was effective in producing a fatty liver. In each experiment with pituitrin plus insulin, 4 c.c. of pituitrin in gum solution were injected into the right flank of the animal, and at the same time 40 to 45 units of insulin (B.D.H.) in 6 c.c. of gum solution were injected into the opposite flank. The animals were allowed their usual food during the experimental period; if this happened to involve the night, they had little or no opportunity of feeding before they were killed early the following morning. Feeding or abstinence, however, made no obvious difference to the results. The animals were killed after times varying from 4 to 24 hours, and the fatty acid of the liver was estimated as in the previous work. They appeared to suffer no ill effects from the injections, and there were no symptoms of hypoglycaemia.

The Antagonism Between Insulin and Pituitary Extract

“…The patient's next entry was on Dec. 13,1924, when he complained of marked thirst, polyuria and weakness. Glycosuria was now present, the sugar in the urine amounting to 238 Gm.…”