Diabetes induced by partial hepatic sensory denervation in conscious rabbits.

Exposure of the anterior hepatic plexus to 2% perineurial capsaicin solution over three days caused transient insulin resistance confirmed by hyperinsulinaemic euglycaemic glucose clamping. Three additional perineurial capsaicin treatments divided by 3-month intervals yielded diabetes characterized by an increase in fasting blood glucose and glycated haemoglobin levels. Both insulin sensitivity and glycated haemoglobin level re-normalized over an additional 6-month period. We conclude that chronic partial hepatic sensory denervation produces diabetes in rabbits.