A major loss in islet mass and b-cell function precedes hyperglycemia in mice given multiple low doses of streptozotocin
Streptozotocin (SZ) given in five low doses causes diabetes and an associated lymphocytic infiltration of the pancreatic islets. Using C57BL/KsJ-mice, we demonstrate a reduction in islet number (-38%) and volume (-64%) within 1 day following the last injection of SZ. A substantial fall of insulin secretory capacity (-84%) in the in vitro perfused pancreas matches the reduction in islet cell volume
