Validation of HOMA IR in a model of insulin resistance induced by a high fat diet in Wistar rats.
Objective The present study aimed to validate homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA IR) in relation to the insulin tolerance test (ITT) in a model of insulin resistance in Wistar rats induced by a 19 week high fat diet. Materials and methods A total of 30 male Wistar rats weighing 200 300 g were allocated into a high fat diet group (HFD) (55% fat enriched chow, ad lib, n 15) and a standard diet group (CD) standard chow, ad lib, n 15) for 19 weeks. ITT was determined at baseline and in the 19th week. HOMA IR was determined between the 18 19th week in three different days and the mean was considered for analysis. Area under the curve (AUC ITT) of the blood glucose excursion along 120 minutes after intra peritoneal insulin injection was determined and correlated with the corresponding fasting values for HOMA IR. Results AUC ITT and HOMA IR were significantly greater after 19th week in HFD compared to CD (p 0.001 for both) AUC OGTT was also higher in HFD rats (p 0.003) HOMA IR was strongly correlated (Pearson's) with AUC ITT r 0.637; p 0.0001. ROC curves of HOMA IR and AUC ITT showed similar sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion HOMA IR is a valid measure to determine insulin resistance in Wistar rats. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2016;60(2):138 42.
Archives of endocrinology and metabolism