[Amylin: its potential role in the etiopathogenicity of diabetes mellitus]

The recent discovery that IAPP, or amylin, a polypeptide solubilized from the amyloid substance found in the islets of Langerhans of most type II diabetics, is secreted along with insulin by beta cells and possesses anti-insulinic effects has opened new perspectives in the etiopathogenesis of this type of diabetes. Many data suggest a possible hormonal mechanism acting on perypheral targets, though so far effects have only been observed with supraphysiological doses. Other reports suggest amylin would have a deleterious effect on beta cells, because of its deposition in the form islet amyloid.