Pancreatic HB9 protein expression is affected by long-term high-fat diet in female rat dams

while the adrenal glands were separated and weighed. Results: The HF group showed significant increases in adrenal gland weight, plasma corticosterone levels, and pancreatic HB9 protein expression compared to the N group. Despite this, there were no significant variations in plasma glucose and insulin concentrations, HOMA-β index, or body weight among the study groups. Whereas, the HF group consumed less food. Conclusion: Chronic intake of high-fat foods can act as a psychophysical stressor, triggering the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and resulting in elevated plasma corticosterone levels in female rat dams. This rise in corticosterone may lead to an upsurge in HB9 protein expression, potentially preventing disturbances in glucose regulation.