Effect of chronic isoproterenol exposure on insulin binding and insulin-stimulated hexose transport in isolated rat adipocytes

The effect of chronic exposure of isolated rat adipocytes to the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol has been studied with respect to insulin binding and insulin-stimulated hexose uptake. Isoproterenol exposure led to a progressive decrease in both the number of surface insulin receptors and the stimulation of hexose uptake. The effect on insulin binding was reversible by removal of the beta-agonist within an hour of its addition. Later exposures of adipocytes to isoproterenol resulted in an irreversible cellular defect by leading to a progressive inability of the cells to regain their normal level of insulin-stimulated hexose uptake and insulin binding.