Gulubova, M.Tolekova, A.Berbatov, D.Stefanov, IChonov, D.Aydoglu, N.2026-04-042026-04-0420251381-34551744-4160https://doi.org/10.1080/13813455.2025.2503482https://hdl.handle.net/11616/109237ContextThe generation of insulin-producing cells (IPCs) as cell replacement therapy for diabetes treatment is challenging.ObjectiveWe have evaluated the presence of insulin-positive (insulin+) and glucagon-positive (glucagon+) cells in hepatocytes, peribiliary glands (PBGs), and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs).Materials and MethodsWistar rats are subjected to a diet including administration of 15% fructose solution for 3 months. Tissue samples are processed for immunohistochemistry with antibodies against insulin, glucagon, ghrelin, somatostatin, PDX1, and SOX9. Blood glucose levels and lipid profile are investigated.ResultsIn treated rats, Ins+ and glucagon+ hepatocytes are found around central veins. In PBGs, Ins+ and glucagon+ endocrine cells (ECs) are detected. LSECs show insulin+ and glucagon+ cellular membranes. The nuclei of LSECs in treated rats are SOX9-positive.ConclusionsOur experiment of fructose-induced metabolic syndrome shows the appearance of Ins+ and glucagon+ ECs in extrahepatic biliary pathways and hepatocytes. Interestingly, SOX9+ nuclei of LSECs are observed.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessMetabolic syndromeratsinsulinglucagonhepatocytesperibiliary glandsliver sinusoidal endothelial cellsArticle13158508584058006910.1080/13813455.2025.25034822-s2.0-105009400694Q1WOS:001519700000001Q2