The effect of cyproheptadine on insulin biosynthesis.

The effect of a potent antiserotonin-antihistaminic compound, cyproheptadine (CPH) on insulin biosynthesis was studied in pancreatic islets isolated from CPH-treated rats. Though insulin content of islets was markedly reduced in CPH-treated rats, the incorporation of radiolabeled leucine into proinsulin and insulin fractions was not affected with respect to the rate and amount. It is concluded that CPH may deplete insulin content of the islets through causing the leakage of insulin.