Local action of the diabetogenic drug, streptozotocin, on glucose and energy metabolism in rat brain cortex.

Glucose is the principal source for energy production in the brain, and undisturbed glucose metabolism is pivotally significant for normal function of this organ. Peripheral glucose metabolism is impaired by streptozotocin (STZ), which induces diabetes mellitus. In this investigation, we have studied the local effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) STZ on glucose and energy metabolism in cerebral cortex. Three weeks after one single i.c.v. administration of STZ, ATP and phosphocreatine (CrP) concentrations as well as the ATP/ADP ratio and the energy charge potential were decreased, while the concentrations of glucose and ADP were increased, in cerebral cortex. Arterial blood glucose levels were not altered by i.c.v. STZ. It is concluded that brain energy metabolism is locally impaired by i.c.v. STZ. We propose that the disturbance of brain energy metabolism by i.c.v. STZ administration may provide a model for the study of prolonged metabolic neuronal stress.