Date of Award
2008
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Program
Physiology
Supervisor
Dr. David Hill
Second Advisor
Dr. Edith Arany
Abstract
In order to investigate the role of statins in beta (β)-cell regeneration, we used a model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced β-cell injury, and attempted to affect neovascularization using atorvastatin (AT), in order to aid in β-cell recovery. The recruitment of EPCs, which readily home to sites of injury, would contribute to new blood vessel formation and deliver appropriate signals for β-cell regeneration. We hypothesized that the rate and capacity of the β-cell growth and regenerative processes would increase with AT. β-cell mass was expanded by postnatal day (PD) 44 and we observed a better glucose tolerance in STZ animals treated with 20 mg/kg AT. This treatment appeared to affect the neogenesis of islets and caused an increase in the number of endothelial cells (ECs). Our findings suggest a novel effect of statins and will help further elucidate the mechanisms of β-cell regeneration.
Recommended Citation
Weese, Kelly C., "EFFECTS OF ATORVASTATIN ON THE REGENERATION OF PANCREATIC BETA CELLS AFTER STREPTOZOTOCIN TREATMENT IN THE NEONATAL RODENT" (2008). Digitized Theses. 4310.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/digitizedtheses/4310