Effect of 2-deoxyglucose on islet cell morphology and insulin secretion

The effect of 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) on islet cell morphology and portal vein insulin levels was studied. The B-cells did not show any alteration in their fine structure, except for an increase in dense bodies. Six hrs after 2-DG administration degranulation was observed in some of these cells. Insulin levels were low 45 min after 2-DG administration, in spite of the marked hyperglycemia, and slightly higher than normal after 6 hrs. The A-cells remained well granulated at all times after 2-DG injection. The D-cells showed signs of functional activity, such as microvilli formation, increased lamellar ergastoplasm and free ribosomes. The significance of these findings is discussed.