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The β Cell in Diabetes: Integrating Biomarkers With Functional Measures
Steven E Kahn1, Yi-Chun Chen2,3,4, Nathalie Esser1
1Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, VA Puget Sound Health Care System and University of Washington, Seattle, 98108 WA, USA.
Endocrine Reviews
|June 28, 2021
Summary
This review explores biomarkers for islet beta cell function and loss in diabetes. It covers genetic markers, circulating molecules, immune cell phenotyping, and imaging to aid in diagnosis and prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Diabetes Research
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Hyperglycemia in diabetes is linked to islet beta cell dysfunction and loss.
- These beta cell impairments are evident in diagnosed individuals and those at high risk.
- Biomarkers are crucial for predicting, diagnosing, and monitoring disease states and interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review potential biomarkers for islet beta cell function and loss.
- To explore genetic, molecular, immunological, and imaging approaches.
- To discuss how these biomarkers complement existing measures of beta cell secretory function.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on beta cell biomarkers in diabetes.
- Analysis of genetic markers, circulating molecules, immune cell phenotyping, and imaging techniques.
- Consideration of established dynamic measurements of beta cell secretory function.
Main Results:
- Various biomarkers show potential for assessing beta cell health and function.
- Genetic markers, circulating molecules, immune cell profiles, and imaging offer insights.
- These novel biomarkers can complement traditional functional assays.
Conclusions:
- Biomarkers are valuable tools in diabetes research and clinical practice for understanding beta cell status.
- A multi-faceted biomarker approach can enhance the prediction, diagnosis, and management of diabetes.
- Further research into these biomarkers will refine their utility in clinical settings.
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