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Molecular mechanisms of increased glucose production: identifying potential therapeutic targets

Joseph Proietto1, Sofianos Andrikopoulos

  • 1Department of Medicine, Repatriation Hospital, Heidelberg, Australia. j.proietto@unimelb.edu.au

Journal of Investigative Medicine : the Official Publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research
|December 23, 2004
PubMed

Insights

New oral diabetes medications aim to lower excessive glucose production in type 2 diabetes patients. Research explores targeting key pathways like glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis for better blood sugar control.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology and Metabolism
  • Pharmacology
  • Diabetes Research

Background:

  • Type 2 diabetes often necessitates insulin therapy for glycemic control.
  • Elevated endogenous glucose production is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes.
  • Existing oral hypoglycemic agents have limitations, creating a need for novel therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review mechanisms driving increased glucose production in type 2 diabetes.
  • To explore potential therapeutic strategies and targets for suppressing endogenous glucose production.
  • To discuss emerging classes of oral hypoglycemic agents.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of mechanisms of glucose production.
  • Analysis of various inhibitory strategies and molecular targets.
  • Discussion of ongoing research in novel drug development.

Main Results:

  • Inappropriately elevated endogenous glucose production is a key therapeutic target.
  • Multiple strategies are under investigation, including enzyme inhibitors and receptor modulators.
  • Agents targeting gene expression offer a novel approach.

Conclusions:

  • Several promising strategies exist to inhibit glucose production.
  • New oral agents targeting glucose production are likely to emerge soon.
  • These novel agents hold potential for safe and effective type 2 diabetes management.

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