Fructose consumption enhances body fat and sympathetic innervation

Abstract

<p>Fructose intake produces a cadre of symptoms indicative ofobesity, metabolic syndrome and autonomic dysfunction. Purpose: The aim was to determine the effect of ingestion of a 10% fructose solution on adiposity (change in body fat and visceral fat cell size), adrenergic input (tyrosine hydroxylase in adipose tissue) and plasma insulin. Methods: C57BL male mice (Fructose, n=lO; Control, n=lO) were given standard chow and water or fructose water for 8 wks. Body fat was measured using EchoMRI. Adipocyte size was determined with light microscopy and image analysis on stained tissue sections. Results: Fructose consumption produced a greater increase in body fat and fat cell size as compared to Control. The increase was 1.0 ± 0.1 vs. 0.5 ± 0.1 g, Fructose vs Control. Fat cells are larger in Fructose as compared to Control 1386 ± 153 vs. 939 ± 96 &#956;m2, respectively. Immunochemical staining for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), ratelimiting enzyme for catecholamine synthesis, was enhanced in the Fructose group. Metabolic function was altered in the Fructose group, seen as increased plasma insulin (Fructose, 1.7 ± 0.8 vs. Control, 1.2 ± 0.4 ng/dl). Conclusion: Results demonstrate the potent effects of fructose consumption on adiposity and sympathetic response. Supported by NIH R01 HL093567.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 8, 2011</p>