Effect of cadmium on the expression of insulin and glucagon in non-diabetic and diabetic male Wistar rats

The increasing incidence of diabetes may involve other causes, environmental pollutants. Among the pollutants potentially involved, several studies show a correlation between exposure to cadmium and the severity and incidence of diabetes, but this association remains controversial. Thus, in order to explore the effects of cadmium on pancreatic functions, 20 male Wistar pubescent non-diabetic and diabetic rats received cadmium sulfate orally for 30 consecutive days. After the exposure period, the rats were euthanized. The pancreas were isolated with a view to making histological sections. In non-diabetic rats, cadmium caused an increase in the secretion of glucagon and a decrease in the release of insulin. In contrast, in diabetic rats, cadmium induced an increase in the secretion of insulin and glucagon. This study showed that cadmium increased glucagon secretion and caused necrosis and partial degeneration of ß cells in non-diabetic rats. On the other hand, in diabetic rats, cadmium induced an increase in insulin and glucagon secretion.