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Leprdb Mouse Model of Type 2 Diabetes: Pancreatic Islet Isolation and Live-cell 2-Photon Imaging Of Intact Islets
Published on: May 11, 2015
Is beta-cell failure in type 2 diabetes mellitus reversible?
International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries
|November 11, 2009
Summary
Beta-cell function decline in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is not always permanent. In obese T2DM patients, beta-cell function improved significantly after weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Diabetes Research
Background:
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by progressive beta-cell dysfunction.
- Previous studies suggest beta-cell function may be preserved or recover in some T2DM patients.
- Obesity and exogenous insulin can impact beta-cell function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate beta-cell function in morbidly obese T2DM patients before and after insulin withdrawal.
- To assess the impact of weight loss and oral agents on beta-cell function and insulin sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with serum C-peptide and glucose measurements in 10 obese T2DM men and 10 controls.
- Calculation of cumulative responses (CR) of C-peptide and glucose.
- Assessment of beta-cell function using the insulinogenic index and insulin sensitivity.
Main Results:
- Prior to insulin withdrawal, fasting C-peptide levels (FCPEP) were reduced but present in T2DM patients.
- After 6-9 months of achieving glycemic goals with weight loss and oral agents, FCPEP, insulinogenic index, and insulin sensitivity significantly improved (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Beta-cell dysfunction in morbidly obese T2DM may not be progressive.
- Improving insulin sensitivity and reducing exogenous insulin inhibition can reverse beta-cell decline.
- Weight loss and oral medications are effective in restoring beta-cell function in T2DM.
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