Effect of intermittent high glucose on INS-1 cell proliferation and the expression of skp2-p27

Abstract

Objective To investigate the effect of intermittent high glucose on proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle progression of INS-1 cells, and the possible intracellular pathways activated by intermittent high glucose. Methods Cell viability was evaluated by cell counting kit, the cell cycle was determined by flow cytometry,Annexin-V/PI double-labeled cell apoptosis detection kit was used to monitor cell apoptosis. Cell cycle related protein Skp2 and p27 expressions were detected by Western blot. Results ( 1 ) Both intermittent and constant high glucose significantly inhibited the growth of INS-1 cells, and the former effect was more significant. ( 2 ) Intermittent and constant high glucose levels significantly increased apoptosis in INS-1 cells, and the former effect was more significant. (3) Intermittent and constant high glucose levels significantly inhibited the cell process, the G0/G1 cell cycle arrest also was induced by intermittent high glucose, resulting in lowered proportion of the G2/M phase and S phase of INS-1 cells. (4) Intermittent and constant high glucose significantly decreased the level of protein Skp2 and increased the level of cell cycle related protein p27. Conclusion Intermittent high glucose levels affect INS-1 cell growth and proliferation, as well as induce cell apoptosis, probably by decreasing the level of protein Skp2 and increasing the level of p27 in the cells, resulting in arrest of progression through the G1 phase to the S phase of INS1 cells, and thus impairment of cell proliferation. Key words: Islet β-cells; Intermittent high glucose; Skp2; p27; Proliferation