Effects of adenosine on glucose and lipid metabolism and hepatic blood flow

The effect of adenosine on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism has been investigated in mice. Adenosine caused hyperglycaemia which developed gradually over 30 min. Adenosine also caused stimulation of fatty acid synthesis in adipose tissue, which could be a result of the hyperglycaemia, as well as of the insulin-like action of adenosine on adipose tissue. There was no significant effect on hepatic synthesis of fatty acids or cholesterol. Adenosine caused vasoconstriction in the perfused rat liver; this effect could cause glycogenolysis, through hypoxia. These results are discussed in the light of the hypothesis that adenosine could be a regulatory “messenger” in tissues.