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Magnesium and glucose homeostasis.
G Paolisso1, A Scheen, F D'Onofrio
1Istituto di Gerontologia e Geriatria, University of Naples, Italy.
Diabetologia
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Magnesium is vital for cellular function and insulin action. Supplementing magnesium may improve insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cellular Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Magnesium acts as a crucial cofactor for enzymes, particularly those involving high-energy phosphates.
- Magnesium serves as a second messenger for insulin action, while insulin regulates intracellular magnesium.
- Insulin resistance, linked to conditions like hypertension and aging, correlates with reduced intracellular magnesium.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the intricate relationship between magnesium and insulin.
- To investigate the role of intracellular magnesium in insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus.
- To assess the potential benefits of magnesium supplementation in type 2 diabetes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on magnesium's role in cellular metabolism and insulin signaling.
- Analysis of the association between intracellular magnesium levels and conditions of insulin resistance.
- Examination of studies investigating the effects of magnesium supplementation on diabetic subjects.
Main Results:
- Low intracellular magnesium is observed in conditions of insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus.
- Reduced magnesium may contribute to impaired insulin response and action in type 2 diabetes.
- Chronic magnesium supplementation shows potential for improving beta-cell response and insulin action.
Conclusions:
- Magnesium plays a significant role in insulin signaling and action.
- Addressing low magnesium levels could be a therapeutic strategy for type 2 diabetes.
- Further research is needed to establish the contribution of magnesium to diabetic complications.