Effect of RU486 on hepatic and adipocyte gene expression improves diabetes control in obesity-type 2 diabetes.

Cortisol has wide-ranging actions, namely in gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis and exerts its effects through the glucocorticoid receptor. In the present study, we examined effects of glucocorticoid receptor blockade on type 2 diabetes control using the antagonist, RU486. Obese diabetic mice received daily injections of vehicle or RU486 over 28 days. Food intake, body weight, and plasma glucose were measured frequently. At 28 days, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and plasma triglycerides were assessed. Epididymal white adipose tissue and liver were excised for measurement of gene expression. Daily administration of RU486 had no effect on body weight or food intake, but plasma glucose concentrations were significantly lowered (1.4-1.6-fold; p