Effect of galanin on plasma glucose, insulin and pancreatic glucagon in dogs.

The effect of synthetic galanin on plasma glucose, insulin and pancreatic glucagon levels in dogs was studied. Infusion of galanin caused a rapid, reversible and dose-dependent reduction in basal insulin level. A maximal increase in blood glucose level accompanying the insulin decrease was observed when galanin was administered at a dose of 4 micrograms/kg per h. Pancreatic glucagon levels showed little change compared with basal secretion. These results indicate that galanin is involved in the regulation of glucose through control of insulin secretion.