Role of glucose and catecholamines in the regulation of insulin secretion in the hibernating hedgehog ( Erinaceus europaeus) during arousal

Abstract

In hedgehogs during periodic arousal, an experimental hyperglycemia does not induce an increase in plasma insulin compared with the control as long as rewarming is going on. One hour later the B cell regains its response capacity to glucose. Pancreatic inhibition during arousal seems to be due first to cold then to the effects of a blockage provoked by the stimulation of α-adrenergic receptors. This suggests a high increase in sympathetic activity during rewarming.