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  • Title: Preservation of beta-cell function by targeting beta-cell mass.
    Author: de Koning EJ, Bonner-Weir S, Rabelink TJ.
    Journal: Trends Pharmacol Sci; 2008 Apr; 29(4):218-27. PubMed ID: 18359095.
    Abstract:
    Type 2 diabetes is characterized by progressive beta-cell dysfunction and a reduction in beta-cell mass. Pancreatic islets are a target for adverse effectors such as high concentrations of glucose, pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased free fatty acid concentrations - which are associated with adiposity, insulin resistance and the induction of beta-cell apoptosis. If the beta-cell mass is already below the threshold for maintaining normoglycemia, the expansion of beta-cell mass is the only option for achieving normoglycemia without the use of additional glucose-lowering agents. Therapies based on glucagon-like peptide-1 and combinations of growth factors such as epidermal growth factor and gastrin are promising new strategies for beta-cell preservation. In this review, we address the mechanisms involved in beta-cell dysfunction and beta-cell loss, and provide a rationale for pharmacological intervention for the preservation and/or expansion of beta-cell mass in type 2 diabetes.
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