Beta cell dysfunction in cyclosporine A-treated rabbits

ABSTRACT

This study was performed with the aim of testing the effect of three different doses schedules of cyclosporin-A on B cell function in rabbits. Low and intermediate doses, long-term [five weeks] treatments, with weekly doses reductions schedules were associated with normal glucose tolerance, but led to light microscopic destruction in the liver and pancreatic islets. High dose, short-term [one week] treatment schedule resulted in the development of hyperglycemia, impaired glucose tolerance and more severe destructive changes in the liver, pancreatic islets and kidneys. The high dose schedule resulted also in inhibition of the glucose stimulated insulin release. Both, the biochemical and the morphological changes were reversible after stoppage of treatment