ROLE OF THE SUPRACHIASMATIC NUCLEUS IN GLUCOSE HOMEOSTASIS

Abstract

Effect of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) on photoperiod-dependent hyperglycemia due to 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) was investigated using SCN-injured rats. Lesions involving the SCN caused not only complete suppression of photoperioddependent hyperglycemia due to 2DG, but also hyperinsulinemia without hyperphagia, irrespective of the lighting conditions. We propose that besides acting as a circadian clock, the SCN is involved in the central glucoreceptor mechanism and also in the regulation of insulin secretion.