THE IMPACT OF AMINO ACIDS ON CHANGES IN FLUID AND FAT TISSUE CONTENT IN RATS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the body composition of rats with experimental type 2 diabetes mellitus, and to assess the impact of amino acid correction on these parameters using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Materials and methods. Type 2 diabetes mellitus was induced with streptozotocin (30 mg/kg) in rats with insulin resistance. Two experimental subgroups received L-arginine or N-acetyl-L-cysteine, while the diabetic control group received drinking water. Glucose levels, body weight, and body composition were measured. Results. Streptozotocin administration caused persistent hyperglycemia and body mass reduction, primarily due to fat loss, despite a slight increase in lean body mass. However, the lean body mass remained lower than in the control group. These changes led to overall dehydration caused by reduced extracellular and intracellular fluid volumes, while their ratio was preserved. L-arginine and N-acetyl-L-cysteine reduced glucose levels by 14 % and 13 %, respectively, compared to the untreated diabetic group. Despite the reduction in glucose levels, all diabetic subgroups experienced progressive dehydration, without significant differences in total body weight, fat, or lean body mass mass. The fat-tolean mass ratio in amino acid-treated groups was 1:5, significantly different from the 1:6 ratio observed in untreated diabetic rats. Conclusion. Modeling type 2 diabetes mellitus in rats with insulin resistance leads to changes in body composition in rats, including fat mass loss and general dehydration. Amino acid correction reduces glucose levels but does not prevent alterations in water and fat metabolism.