In vitro carbohydrate metabolism in the rat after chronic exposure to hypoxia.

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Abstract
Many of the alterations in carbohydrate metabolism in humans and animals after chronic exposure to hypoxia could be explained by an increase in peripheral utilization of glucose. In vitro experiments were performed to determine if peripheral tissues removed from rats chronically exposed to a simulated altitude of 14,500 ft. showed a heightened sensitivity to glucose and/or insulin. Rats housed in low-barometric pressure chambers for 6 wks weigh significantly less than littermates in an identical chamber at sea level; insulin-stimulated glucose uptake of the diaphragm is inversely proportional to the weight of the animal, even though expressed/unit weight of the tissue; consequently, weight-matched controls are necessary. Fasting plasma glucoses of high-altitude rats are significantly lower than controls; no difference was found in glucose uptake by diaphragm or glucose oxidation to CO2 by epididymal fat pads or diaphragms removed from high-altitude rats and weight-matched controls.