Using real time RT-PCR analysis to determine gene expression patterns in RBL-2H3 cells in response to insulin, glucose and the anti-diabetic bis (maltolato)oxovanadium ( IV)

Abstract: We used real time reverse transcription PCR (real time RT-PCR) to examine and compare relative expression levels of ten genes in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells in response to treatment with either insulin, glucose, the anti-diabetic compound bis (maltolato) oxovanadium(IV) (BMOV) or a combination of these treatments.  We found significant differences in the relative expression levels of seven key genes involved in insulin receptor and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways that may prove important in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.  Six of these genes including InsR, GLUT4, Ampk?1, Ampk?2, Ampk?1 and Ampk?2 were significantly upregulated in response to treatment with insulin, glucose or the anti-diabetic compound BMOV.  Interestingly, the Ampk?1 gene was significantly downregulated with treatment of glucose and even more so with overnight treatment of BMOV.