Inhibitory effects of neuropeptide Y on splanchnic glycogenosis and renin release in humans

Abstract

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is stored in sympathetic nerves and NPY levels increase several times during exercise. NPY administration during prolonged exercise causes reduced splanchnic glucose production. To elucidate the effects of NPY on adrenaline (Adr)-stimulated splanchnic glycogenolysis these substances were infused to seven healthy subjects in the post-absorptive state. Blood samples were drawn from an arterial and a central hepatic vein catheter for determination of splanchnic blood flow, exchanges of metabolites and arterial levels of NPY, catecholamines, insulin, glucagon and renin in the basal state and during 20 min Adr infusion (0.1-0.3 nmol kg-1 min-1). After basal values were reached a 60 min NPY infusion was initiated. At 40 min of NPY infusion the Adr infusion was repeated. Adr alone increased splanchnic blood flow (41%, P < 0.01), arterial glucose concentration (29%, P < 0.001) and splanchnic glucose production (102%, P < 0.01). During the NPY infusion both splanchnic blood flow and arterial glucose fell (P < 0.05). Although the combined NPY and Adr infusion caused the same proportional increases in splanchnic blood flow, arterial glucose and splanchnic glucose production as with Adr alone the absolute values were lower (all P < 0.05). Arterial insulin as well as Adr and noradrenaline increased with the combined NPY-and Adr infusion as with Adr alone. Arterial plasma renin activity was 12% lower with the combined NPY and Adr-infusion compared to Adr infusion alone. These results indicate further an inhibitory effect of NPY on splanchnic glycogenolysis and suggest that NPY inhibits Adr-stimulated renin release.