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Glucocorticoids and type 2 diabetes: from physiology to pathology
Guido Di Dalmazi1, Uberto Pagotto, Renato Pasquali
1Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medical and Surgical Science, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism
|January 15, 2013
Summary
Type 2 diabetes involves genetic and environmental factors, leading to pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction. This study explores how glucocorticoids, like cortisol, impact glucose balance and contribute to type 2 diabetes development.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Diabetes Pathophysiology
Background:
- Type 2 diabetes arises from genetic and environmental interactions, causing pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction.
- Obesity and insulin resistance are key factors, exacerbated by hormonal imbalances like reduced GLP-1 secretion and hyperglucagonemia.
- Cortisol excess is linked to metabolic disturbances, including obesity and insulin resistance, suggesting a role in diabetes development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of glucocorticoids in glucose homeostasis.
- To elucidate the connection between hypercortisolism and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing research on glucocorticoids, cortisol, and glucose metabolism.
- Examination of the relationship between cortisol secretion/action and insulin resistance.
- Synthesis of evidence linking metabolic syndrome features to hypercortisolism and type 2 diabetes.
Main Results:
- Glucocorticoids significantly influence glucose homeostasis.
- Subtle abnormalities in cortisol secretion and action may bridge insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
- Hypercortisolism contributes to hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and abdominal obesity.
Conclusions:
- Glucocorticoids play a critical role in regulating glucose metabolism.
- Understanding the link between hypercortisolism and type 2 diabetes offers insights into disease mechanisms.
- Further research into cortisol's role could reveal new therapeutic targets for type 2 diabetes.
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