2015 ACVIM Forum Research Abstract Program

In the preliminary study, the serum leptin and adiponectin concentrations differed significantly between the dogs with MMVD and the healthy dogs, regardless of whether or not congestive heart failure signs were absent, but there were no significant differences in the concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1b, IL-6, IL-10, IL-18, tumor necrosis factor-a, resistin and visfatin. In the subsequent study, the dogs classified as ISACHC class III significantly showed the highest serum concentrations of leptin and adiponectin. These results indicated that dogs suffering from progressed MMVD showed increases in the serum concentrations of leptin and adiponectin. Our results suggest that the dysregulation of adiponectin and leptin might at least play a role in the pathogenesis of MMVD in dogs. However, further studies will be necessary before an association between adipokines and the progression of MMVD can be clearly understood. Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrinopathy in cats, characterized by impaired beta-cell function and loss. Most of the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms that negatively affect beta cell function and viability has been obtained in vitro in species other than cats. Although feline diabetes is similar to human type 2 diabetes, species-dependent differences in the pathophysiology of the diseases may exist. Therefore, by establishing a method for the isolation and culture of pure pancreatic islets in cats, we aim at providing an in vitro tool for specific diabetes research in cats.