Characterization of glucose-stimulated insulin release protocols in african green monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops).

BACKGROUND: Management of diabetes remains a major health and economic challenge, demanding test systems in which to develop new therapies. These studies assessed different methodologies for determining glucose tolerance in green monkeys.

METHODS: Twenty-eight African green monkeys between 4 and 24 years old underwent single or repeat intravenous glucose tolerance testing (IVGTT), oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT), and/or graded glucose infusion testing.

RESULTS: Geriatric monkeys exhibited glucose intolerance with impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion following IVGTT. Repeat IVGTT and OGTT assessments were inconsistent. Monkeys with low glucose-stimulated insulin secretion after graded glucose infusion exhibited elevated blood glucose levels.

CONCLUSION: IVGTT and graded glucose infusion protocols revealed differences in glucose tolerance among green monkeys at single time points, including age-dependent differences suggestive of shifts in pancreatic beta-cell functional capacity, but care should be applied to study design and the interpretation of data in the setting of longitudinal studies.