The dual effect of isoproterenol on insulin release is suppressed in pancreatic islets from hypothalamic obese rats

Hyperinsulinemia in obesity has been attributed to insulin oversecretion by pancreatic beta-cells. Beta-cells are equipped with cholinergic and adrenergic receptors; whereas overall acetylcholine action is to potentiate, catecholamines' effect is to inhibit glucose-induced insulin release (GIIR) via alpha2-adrenoceptor. However, it has been shown that beta-adrenergic agonists potentiate glucose response. GIIR was studied in pancreatic islets from hyperinsulinemic adult obese rats, obtained by L-glutamate monosodium (MSG) neonatal treatment. Islets from MSG-rats were more glucose responsive than control ones. Isoproterenol, a beta-adrenergic agonist, inhibited the GIIR in islets from MSG-obese rats. Results indicate that MSG treatment causes alteration on function of beta-cell adrenoceptors.