Abstract

This study examined whether AMPK, an evolutionarily conserved sensor of cellular energy status, determines the production of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP1). A negative relation existed between phosphorylation of AMPKα and the expression and secretion of GLP1 during changes in energy status in STC-1 cells, an L-like cell line. High concentration of glucose (25 mmol/L) decreased AMPKα phosphorylation, whereas it stimulated the expression and secretion of GLP1 relative to 5.6 mmol/L glucose. Serum starvation upregulated AMPKα phosphorylation, whereas it reduced GLP1 production significantly. Stimulation of AMPK phosphorylation by AICAR and overexpression of wild-type AMPKα1, constitutively active AMPKα1 plasmids, or AMPKα1 lentivirus particles suppressed proglucagon mRNA and protein contents in STC-1 cells. Inactivation of AMPK by Compound C, AMPKα1 siRNA or kinase-inactive AMPKα1 mutant increased the expression and secretion of GLP1. Our results suggest that AMPKα1 may link energy supply with the production of GLP1 in L-like cells.