Development of pancreatic islet cells in the extrahepatic bile ducts of rats with experimentally-induced metabolic syndrome.

CONTEXT: There is data about the existence of some endocrine cells in the epithelial layer of the bile duct in humans and rats.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated Ghrelin-, Insulin-, Glucagon- and Somatostatin-positive cells in peribiliary glands, mast cells, and nerve fibres.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Wistar rats were used for dietary manipulation with a 15% fructose solution for 12 weeks. Tissue samples were elaborated with immunohistochemistry for Insulin, Glucagon, Ghrelin, and Somatostatin. Glucose and lipid parameters were studied.

RESULTS

In treated animals, Ghrelin+ and Insulin+ cells in perybiliary glands (PBGs) were significantly increased. In the male fructose group there was a significant increase of the homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

CONCLUSIONS

Stem/progenitor cells in extrahepatic bile tree (EHBT) could be a source of Insulin-producing cells in metabolic syndrome. Fructose treatment induces the increase of Ghrelin+ and Insulin+ cells in PBGs and the elevation of Insulin and Ghrelin plasma concentration.