Estradiol favors glucose oxidation in gastrocnemius muscle through modulation of insulin signaling molecules in adult female rats.

INTRODUCTION

Estrogens are steroid compounds that are synthesized in ovary, testis, adrenal cortex and other tissues. Several surveys have shown the potential relationship between estradiol and glucose homeostasis in physiological and pathological states such as the menstrual cycle, gestation, gestational diabetes mellitus and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). All these states are characterized by variability in estradiol level and some degree of insulin resistance. Skeletal muscle plays a crucial role in maintaining systemic glucose metabolism through activation of assorted signaling molecules.

OBJECTIVES

The present study is to evaluate the aftermath of ovariectomy and estradiol replacement on few insulin signaling molecules and GLUT4 protein expression and glucose oxidation in gastrocnemius muscle of adult albino rat.

DESIGN

In the present study, Wistar strain albino rats were selected and divided into three groups. Group I: Control (sham-operated). Group II: Ovariectomized and Group III: Estradiol was replaced 7 days after ovariectomy at a dose of 6 μg/kg boxpression of insulin signaling molecules (western blot) and glucose oxidation were assessed.

RESULTS

Ovariectomy significantly depleted the expression of insulin signaling molecules and glucose oxidation whereas estradiol replacement improved them. Thus, estradiol helps in maintaining glucose level in ovariectomized rats. Results of this study suggest that estradiol improves the expression of insulin signaling molecules in skeletal muscle and thereby it prevents the onset of insulin resistance as a result of estradiol deficiency.