Thiamin deficiency impairs endotoxin-induced increases in hepatic glucose output

Abstract

We addressed the role of thiamin, a cofactor for several enzymes involved in glucose metabolism, in the glucose metabolic response to endotoxin. Characterized by hyperglycemia, increased hepatic glucose production exceeding elevated rates of whole-body glucose utilization, this response is mediated by hormones and cytokines and is dependent on the immune and nutritional status of the host. We hypothesized that a thiamin-deficient state would impair the metabolic response to endotoxin. Rats were fed a thiamin-deficient or control diet for 6 wk before in vivo assessment of glucose kinetics. In control rats, Escherichia coli endotoxin increased the rate of glucose appearance (+76%), disappearance (+70%), and metabolic clearance (+50%). Thiamin deficiency resulted in increased plasma glucose (18%) and lactate (3- to 4-fold) as well as in a 30% decrease in insulin and an increase in glucagon (2.6-fold) and corticosterone (3.6-fold). Thiamin deficiency inhibited the endotoxin-induced hyperglycemia and the rise in hepatic glucose production, glucose utilization, and metabolic clearance rate.

Effects of 17<i>β</i>-Estradiol on Dopamine D2 Receptors in Thiamine-Deficient Female Rats: Consequences on Sucrose, Alcohol, Water Intakes and Body Weight

“…These authors suggested the involvement of thiamine in the thermoregulation process. Molina et al [30] showed that thiamine deficiency resulted in an increase in blood sugar (18%), lactate (3 to 4 times) and a 30% decrease in insulin. The main functions of pancreatic beta cells are biosynthesis and the release of insulin, the only hormone that can directly reduce blood sugar levels [31].…”

Thiamine Concentrations in Newly Hospitalized Elderly Patients with Infectious Diseases at a Community Hospital in Japan

“…Experimental studies have shown that sepsis accelerates systemic glucose turnover, which uses thiamine as a cofactor for several enzymes (27,28). In addition, antimicrobial use alters gut microflora, which synthesizes thiamine (29) and may contribute to a reduced thiamine concentration during infectious disease treatment.…”

Hens to Humans

“…8 With synthesis demonstrated, the stage was set for the commercial preparation of thiamine followed by an outburst of publications on its function and metabolism. [5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14]…”

“…The major signs symptoms of thiamine deficiency are loss of appetite (anorexia), weight loss, convulsions, slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia), and lowering of the body temperature. [12][13][14] Loss of muscle tone and lesions of the nervous system also develop. Because the heart muscle can be weakened, there may be cardiac failure, resulting in peripheral edema and ascites (an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity).…”