Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Improving protein folding may lead to new diabetes treatments

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute found that enhancing protein-folding processes can help prevent harm to insulin-producing cells. The study revealed the importance of a chaperone protein called binding immunoglobulin protein and its cochaperone protein p58 IPK in maintaining proper proinsulin folding.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2026

New study may offer hope to women suffering menopausal hot flashes, night sweats

A new study from the University of Victoria found that higher insulin levels at age 47 predicted younger onsets of hot flashes and night sweats. Insulin may be a stronger predictor of hot flashes when taking other metabolic variables into account, while body mass index (BMI) appeared more closely associated with estrogen level changes.

SourceUniversity of Victoria·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2026

Metabolism, not just weight, improved when older adults reduced ultra-processed food intake

A controlled feeding study out of South Dakota State University shows that older adults who reduced ultra-processed foods naturally consumed fewer calories, lost weight and abdominal fat, and showed improvements in insulin sensitivity and inflammation. This study provides evidence that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans can deliver s...

SourceSouth Dakota State University·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 24, 2025

Making insulinomas a thing of the past

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new non-invasive diagnostic method for insulinomas, which achieved 100% diagnostic accuracy in a Phase II clinical trial. The new method using positron emission tomography (PET) probe successfully detected cases difficult to diagnose through existing methods.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 20, 2025

The emerging role of flavonoids in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus: regulating the enteroendocrine system

Research suggests flavonoids improve insulin sensitivity, enhance β-cell function, modulate the gut microbiota, inhibit gluconeogenesis, and regulate enteroendocrine hormones in type 2 diabetes management. Flavonoid-specific effects on GLP-1, GIP, PYY, and CCK secretion contribute to improved glycemic control.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateMar 20, 2025

Reduced prediabetes in people who ate broccoli compound

A study by University of Gothenburg researchers found that consuming sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts improved blood sugar levels in people with prediabetes. The compound had a significant effect on fasting blood sugar levels, particularly in those with certain pathophysiological and microbiome characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 13, 2025

New details about insulin production deciphered

Scientists at the University of Würzburg have discovered that fruit fly nerve cells release insulin into the haemolymph when ingesting sugar, not when it's injected directly. This phenomenon is similar to the incretin effect in humans, suggesting complex mechanisms controlling insulin secretion.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2025

Biomarker-related genetic predisposition discovered for progression from gestational diabetes to type 2 diabetes

A new study identifies molecular mechanisms of the progression from gestational diabetes to type 2 diabetes, finding reduced levels of sphingolipids in blood and a mutation in gene CERS2 linked to risk. The discovery could lead to new therapies and interventions to reduce the risk of this progression.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2025

The Frontiers of Knowledge Award goes to the four researchers who laid the biological foundations for revolutionary new treatments in diabetes and obesity

The BBVA Foundation has awarded four researchers for their fundamental discoveries about the GLP-1 hormone, which has driven the development of new generation drugs for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. The research also shows exciting therapeutic potential in neurological conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

New study reveals genetic drivers of early onset type 2 diabetes in South Asians

A new study from Queen Mary University of London has identified the genetic drivers of early onset type 2 diabetes in South Asians, revealing a strong link to lower insulin production and unfavorable body fat distribution. The research also sheds light on treatment responses, highlighting the need for precision medicine approaches.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2024

Brown researchers show how gut hormones control aging in flies and how it relates to human biology

Researchers at Brown University have found a way to extend the lifespan of flies by suppressing a hormone that regulates insulin secretion. The study suggests that certain medications used to treat human obesity and diabetes may also impact aging, making it a promising area of research for future studies.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2024

Molecular mapping reveals tissue-specific gene regulation by diabetes-linked transcription factors

Scientists have generated a comprehensive map of gene targets regulated by HNF4A and HNF1A in human pancreatic beta cells and liver cells. The study identified novel gene targets in pancreatic beta cells that may play roles in regulating insulin secretion, providing valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets for diabetes.

Fight the late-night bright light

A Flinders University study found that exposure to brighter light at night is associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research used data from approximately 85,000 people and tracked their light levels for nine years.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 24, 2024

Comparative study of type 2 diabetes medications show differences in medication acceptance, quality-of-life, insulin secretion and mortality

A comparative study of four major type 2 diabetes medications reveals differences in medication acceptance, quality of life, insulin secretion, and mortality. The GRADE Study found that younger age and higher blood sugar levels at baseline were associated with poor blood sugar control over time.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMar 25, 2024

HKUST elucidates how IGF2’s secretory pathway mediates muscle stem cell differentiation

A HKUST research team identified TMED10 as a protein that facilitates the secretion of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2), which is crucial for muscle stem cell differentiation. The study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying IGF2's functions and suggests potential therapeutic strategies to modulate its signaling.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Under-the-skin implant could treat Type I diabetes

Researchers from Cornell and University of Alberta have developed an under-the-skin implant that can secrete insulin without immunosuppression. The approach offers an easier alternative to traditional transplants or insulin injections, with the potential for long-term management of Type I diabetes.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 5, 2023

Drug screen points toward novel diabetes treatments

A drug currently in clinical trials as a cancer therapy can also stimulate pancreatic beta cells to secrete insulin, revealing a new mechanism for insulin regulation in type 2 diabetes. The preclinical discovery provides a new chemical tool for probing the biology of diabetes and could lead to better treatments.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 9, 2023

Boosting beta cells to treat type 2 diabetes

A preclinical study by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers reveals that activating a pathway to promote cell division can expand insulin-producing cells without impairing their function. The study's findings support the concept that beta cell mass can be expanded without compromising function.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 8, 2023

Diabetes Magazine Paper of the Month features Pennington Biomedical research demonstrating the link between exercise and improved pancreatic function and insulin secretion

A recent study by Pennington Biomedical Research Center identifies GDF15 as a protein that acts as a cellular signal to enhance insulin secretion. High-intensity exercise training in patients with type 2 diabetes was found to have elevated levels of GDF15, associated with improved glycemic control.

Swedish research about different forms of type 2 diabetes is relevant for Indian people

Researchers at Lund University have identified five subgroups of type 2 diabetes in India, characterized by genetic differences and varying levels of severity. The study suggests that early life undernutrition may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes in India, while vitamin B12 deficiency is also a significant factor.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia·DateMay 2, 2023

Research brief: Verapamil shows beneficial effect on the pancreas in children with newly-diagnosed type 1 diabetes

A University of Minnesota-led study shows that verapamil can increase pancreatic insulin secretion by 30% in children with newly-diagnosed type 1 diabetes. The treatment was well-tolerated and had a favorable safety profile, making it an appealing option for children and adults with the condition.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 24, 2023

Study identifies human microRNAs linked to type 2 diabetes

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has identified 14 pancreatic islet miRNAs associated with human type 2 diabetes. The study used a large sample size of nearly 65 human pancreatic islets to uncover these miRNAs, revealing potential mechanisms for disease development and novel therapeutic targets.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2023

Study reveals obesity-related trigger that can lead to diabetes

Researchers at WashU Medicine discovered a link between obesity and diabetes, highlighting the importance of an enzyme in fatty acid processing. The study suggests that defects in this enzyme contribute to insulin hypersecretion and beta cell failure, paving the way for potential therapeutic interventions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2023

Exercise curbs insulin production

Researchers discovered that physical activity suppresses insulin-producing cells in fruit flies, allowing for efficient energy replenishment. This finding has implications for human health, as reduced insulin activity is linked to healthy ageing and longevity.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Diabetes: When circadian lipid rhythms go wrong

A study by the University of Geneva team shows that disrupted circadian clocks lead to a rigidity in the membrane of pancreatic endocrine cells, affecting their function. The researchers also found that lipid profiles oscillate more during the day than previously thought, particularly in phospholipids and sphingolipids.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeNews article·DateSep 19, 2022

Regular consumption of quinoa can help to prevent type 2 diabetes

A recent study published in Nutrients suggests that regular quinoa consumption can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Researchers replaced carbohydrate-rich foods with quinoa and found a significant reduction in post-meal blood sugar spikes. By mitigating this spike, quinoa may play a crucial role in preventing the progression of type 2 dia...

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalNutrients·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2022

Hormone infusion improves pancreatic insulin production in cystic fibrosis patients with or at risk for diabetes

Researchers have found that infusing glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone can improve impaired islet cell function in the pancreas of cystic fibrosis patients, potentially improving blood sugar control and treatment burden. The study suggests a new therapeutic approach for treating cystic fibrosis-related diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalDiabetes·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 21, 2022