Some metabolic and endocrine consequences in portacaval-shunted rats

Abstract

Some metabolic and endocrine consequences of portacaval shunt were examined in rats eight weeks after the operation. Plasma levels of insulin, glucagon somatostatin, such as pancreatic content of insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin were determined by radioimmunoassay. Numerous biochemical parameters, such as the concentration of serum ammonia, transaminase (AST and ALT), urea bilirubin, total plasma protein and plasma albumin levels were determined by standard biochemical tests. Normal plasma levels of insulin and somatostatin hyperglucagonaemia were observed in rats with portacaval shunt. After portacaval shunt there was a highly significant increase (p<0.01) in levels of blood ammonia, AST and ALT. Serum fasting glucose levels were significantly lower in portacaval shunt rats (p<0.01) in comparison to controls and sham operated rats. We conclude that the metabolic and endocrine consequences of portacaval shunt in rats are probably related to the functional deterioration of the liver due to diversion of the portal blood in systemic circulation.