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Published on: September 9, 2021
Can acetate via FFA receptors contribute to the diabetogenic effect of statins?
Finn Olav Levy1, Jan-Bjørn Osnes2
1Department of Pharmacology, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Sognsvannsveien 20, P.O. Box 1057 Blindern, N-0316, Oslo, Norway. f.o.levy@medisin.uio.no.
Abstract:
Despite the proven effects of statins in preventing cardiovascular disease, their diabetogenic effect has caused concern. The mechanism of this diabetogenic effect is unknown. We suggest a novel mechanism that may contribute to the diabetogenic effect of statins, through an effect of statins that has apparently escaped previous consideration. Briefly, by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, statins may cause accumulation of acetate, which through FFA2 and FFA3 stimulation may inhibit insulin secretion.
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