Mechanism [s] of some abnormal carbohydrate metabolism in uraemia: an experimental study

ABSTRACT

Uraemia was induced in albino rats by bilateral ureteral ligation. Carbohydrate intolerance manifested a hyperglycemia was found. The mechanism[s] which may be suggested from this study are enhanced liver glycogenolysis, inhibition of glycolytic chain in uraemic liver and muscle cells leading to a decrease of glucose breakdown and hence its diminished peripheral utilization. The factors behind this result were suggested to be through the inhibition of cell enzymes concerned with carbohydrate metabolism by the accumulated uraemic toxins. Among these enzymes are aldolase, glutamic oxaloacetic and glutamic pyruvic transaminases [GOT and GPT]. Oxidative phosphorylation was found to be affected as shown by the diminished oxygen consumption of rat diaphragm. The results of the study suggest also a depressed exchange between keto acid and amino acid pools resulting in the activation of the pathways leading to enhanced glluconeogenesis from the amino acid pool and the accumulation of amines in the blood, a factor considered to be important in uraemia