The changes of glucose and lipid metabolism in overweight middle-aged cynomolgus monkeys.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Excessive weight gain has been observed in middle-aged cynomolgus monkeys. This study was designed to investigate the metabolic characteristics in overweight monkeys. METHODS: A total of 26 cynomolgus monkeys were grouped based on gender and body weight. Overweight was operationally defined as body weight heavier than 9.6 kg in males and 7.5 kg in females. They were monitored for glucose and insulin in fasting state, serum parameters, and somatometric measurements. RESULTS: Higher measurements of weight, body mass index (BMI), waist, hip, and waist/hip ratio (WHR) were the somatometric characteristics of overweight monkeys. Abdominal fat deposition was more prominent in females. Elevated total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, and fasting glucose were observed in female overweight monkeys. Impaired insulin sensitivity occurred in overweight monkeys. CONCLUSIONS: Overweight could result in impaired insulin sensitivity. The metabolic changes were more prominent in female overweight monkeys.