Studies of the Diabetogenic Action of Streptozotocin.

Streptozotocin is a highly effective cytotoxic agent for pancreatic B-cells. After intravenous administration of 65 mg streptozotocin per kg, damage to B-cells is apparent as early as one hour after intravenous administration of the drug. Frank necrosis associated with phagocytosis is best seen after 7 hours, when pancreatic insulin release and hypoglycemia are also noted. By 24 hours, pancreatic insulin content is reduced to 5% of normal or less. While the B-cytotoxic effects of streptozotocin resemble those of alloxan, their specificity is very much greater, as demonstrated by the wide margin between diabetogenic dose and general toxicity.