Cellular and physiological effects of C-peptide

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Molecular Biology
• Diabetology

Background:

• Traditionally, C-peptide was considered biologically inert, serving only as a marker for insulin production.
• Emerging evidence highlights significant biological functions of C-peptide beyond its role as an insulin surrogate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the biological functions and therapeutic potential of proinsulin C-peptide.
• To re-evaluate the role of C-peptide in Type 1 diabetes management.

Main Methods:

• Investigated C-peptide's interaction with cell membrane receptors, likely G-protein-coupled receptors.
• Analyzed C-peptide-induced intracellular signaling pathways and gene transcription.
• Evaluated C-peptide's effects on glucose metabolism and diabetic complications in animal models and Type 1 diabetic patients.

Main Results:

• C-peptide binds cell membranes with high affinity, activating signaling pathways and altering cell phenotype.
• Short-term studies show C-peptide enhances glucose disposal and metabolic control in diabetic models and patients.
• Evidence suggests C-peptide ameliorates diabetic nephropathy and neuropathy in preclinical and clinical studies.

Conclusions:

• C-peptide possesses significant biological activity, challenging its traditional inert status.
• Type 1 diabetes may be viewed as a dual-hormone deficiency disease.
• C-peptide replacement therapy, in conjunction with insulin, should be considered for managing Type 1 diabetes.