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C-peptide revisited--new physiological effects and therapeutic implications
J Wahren1, B L Johansson, H Wallberg-Henriksson
1Department of Surgical Sciences, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
Journal of Internal Medicine
|September 1, 1996
Summary
C-peptide replacement therapy in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) shows promise. Short-term and long-term treatments improve kidney function, glucose use, and nerve function, suggesting C-peptide is a beneficial hormone.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is characterized by a lack of insulin and C-peptide.
- C-peptide's physiological role and therapeutic potential are areas of ongoing research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of C-peptide replacement therapy in IDDM patients.
- To explore C-peptide's potential role in regulating insulin secretion and its mechanism of action.
Main Methods:
- Administration of C-peptide to IDDM patients for short-term (1-3 hours) and prolonged (1-3 months) periods.
- In vitro and in vivo studies to assess C-peptide's impact on physiological functions and cellular activity.
Main Results:
- Short-term C-peptide administration decreased glomerular hyperfiltration and improved glucose utilization and autonomic nervous function.
- Prolonged C-peptide administration led to sustained improvements in renal and autonomic nervous function.
- Evidence suggests C-peptide stimulates Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity, potentially mediating its effects.
Conclusions:
- C-peptide is a biologically active hormone with significant therapeutic potential for IDDM.
- C-peptide therapy may offer a beneficial treatment strategy for managing complications associated with IDDM.