Type 2 diabetes: Too much glucagon when α-cells become insulin resistant
Type 2 diabetes patients exhibit elevated glucagon levels due to α-cell resistance to insulin. Glucagon counteracts insulin's effects, exacerbating high blood sugar levels.
Insulin
Articles tagged with Insulin
Technology use by adults with type 1 diabetes lower among African-Americans, Hispanics
A recent study found that technology use by adults with type 1 diabetes is lower among African-American and Hispanic patients. The use of continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) devices was significantly lower in these groups, highlighting racial disparities in access to healthcare.
Wearable device lets patients with type 2 diabetes safely use affordable insulin option
A new study finds that a wearable device called V-Go can safely deliver regular human insulin (RHI) to patients with type 2 diabetes, achieving good blood sugar control. The study, which compared RHI to rapid acting insulin (RAI) analogs, showed improvements in hemoglobin A1c levels and met its primary endpoint of noninferiority.
Diabetes care reaches new heights as drone delivers insulin for patient
A team of international medical experts successfully delivered insulin via a drone to a patient living in a remote community in Ireland, addressing healthcare access issues. The project demonstrated the potential for autonomous drones to deliver life-saving medications and supplies in disaster scenarios.
Medtronic MiniMed 670G insulin pump allows 'excellent' blood glucose control
A study analyzing 6 million days of real-world data shows the MiniMed 670G system can maintain target glucose range of 70-180 mg/dL over 71% of the time. The AutoMode feature improves glycemic control, reducing low and high blood sugar episodes.
'Living drug factories' might treat diabetes and other diseases
Researchers at MIT have developed a way to encapsulate therapeutic cells in a flexible protective device that prevents immune rejection while allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the cells. This technology could lead to long-term treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes.
Deleting a gene prevents Type 1 diabetes in mice by disguising insulin-producing cells
Researchers at UW-Madison discovered that removing a specific gene from insulin-producing cells can prevent Type 1 diabetes in mice by allowing the cells to disguise themselves from immune cells. This genetic manipulation enabled the cells to evade an autoimmune response, leading to normal glucose levels and insulin production.
Type 1 diabetes is not one but two distinct conditions, defined by diagnosis age
Research reveals that children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes under 7 years old have a different form of the condition compared to those diagnosed at 13 or above. The study proposes two distinct endotypes: T1DE1 and T1DE2, which could lead to new treatments and a potential cure for some people.
Mathematical model could lead to better treatment for diabetes
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict the behavior of glucose-responsive insulins in humans and rodents. The model identified optimal designs that could work well in both species, with about 13% predicted to be effective in both, and 14% in humans alone.
Getting off of the blood sugar roller coaster
A team of McGill University researchers has created an artificial pancreas system that significantly improves glucose control, enhancing quality of life for individuals with type 1 diabetes. The system, which combines insulin and pramlintide, has shown promising results in minimizing glucose highs and lows.
Insulin signaling suppressed by decoys
Researchers found a truncated receptor called DAF-2B that acts as a decoy to capture insulin molecules, reducing insulin signaling. This discovery may offer new insights into insulin resistance, a feature of type 2 diabetes and aging.
Patients frequently refuse insulin therapy, delaying blood sugar control
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital finds that over 40% of patients refuse insulin therapy, leading to worse blood sugar control and longer time to lower blood sugar levels. Patients who decline insulin therapy had more severe diabetes complications and higher blood sugar levels.
The potentially deadly paradox of diabetes management
A new study found that people with Type 2 diabetes in the US often receive treatment that is too aggressive or not aggressive enough, with those who are most likely to benefit from intensive therapy being underserved. The study suggests a fine line between effective treatment and increased risk of hypoglycemia.
Boston College biologist Emrah Altindis awarded grant from the Mathers Foundation
Boston College biologist Emrah Altindis received a $300,000 grant from the G. Harold and Leila Y. Mathers Foundation to explore the role of gut microbes and viruses in triggering Type 1 diabetes. The research aims to understand molecular mimicry as a potential cause of the autoimmune disease.
Researchers successfully test coin-sized smart insulin patch, potential diabetes treatment
A new device can automatically manage glucose levels and deliver needed insulin quickly, eliminating the need for constant blood sugar checks and insulin injections. The adhesive patch, about the size of a quarter, has been successfully tested on mice and pigs, showing promise as a potential diabetes treatment.
Could resetting our internal clocks help control diabetes?
Disturbances in the internal clocks of pancreatic cells are linked to type-2 diabetes. Researchers successfully restored clock function using a natural compound, improving insulin secretion and providing new hope for diabetes care. The study shows that synchronizing the internal clocks can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Study: Tasting no-calorie sweetener may affect insulin response on glucose tolerance test
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that tasting or consuming sucralose can affect blood glucose and insulin levels, even in healthy individuals. The study suggests that sweetness should be consumed in moderation regardless of calories.
New insulin compound could improve therapy for diabetes patients
Scientists have developed a non-fibrillating form of human insulin called glycoinsulin, which demonstrates the same glucose-lowering effects as native insulin without fibril formation. This discovery presents a promising solution for patients relying on insulin pumps and could improve the shelf life of insulin products.
SourceThe Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 9, 2020
FDA approves UVA-developed artificial pancreas
The FDA has approved an artificial pancreas system that automatically monitors and regulates blood glucose levels in people with type 1 diabetes. The system, developed by the University of Virginia, uses a continuous glucose sensor and insulin pump to provide seamless integration and automatic insulin dose adjustment.
A closer look at the diabetes disaster
The global diabetes epidemic is reaching epidemic levels, with 425 million people affected and projected to increase to over 600 million. The book 'Traveling with Sugar' examines the havoc diabetes has caused in Belize, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure for treating the condition.
New research aims to improve oral delivery of insulin
A team of researchers at Wayne State University is developing a novel oral insulin delivery system to address the issues of low absorption and bioavailability. The goal is to create a safe and efficient treatment that can enhance the quality of life for diabetes patients.
Genetic screen in worms reveals critical step in insulin synthesis
A genetic screen in worms reveals TRAP-alpha as a crucial component of the insulin synthesis pathway, affecting both early and late steps. The findings support the idea that defects in insulin synthesis contribute to Type 2 diabetes, and may lead to new approaches for prevention and treatment.
A common insulin signaling pathway across cancer and diabetes
A common insulin signaling pathway has been found across cancer and diabetes, revealing the importance of protein TRAP-alpha in maintaining protein homeostasis. Deleting TRAP-alpha triggered a 90% reduction in insulin content in pancreatic beta cells, highlighting its role in insulin biogenesis.
Eating in sync with biological clock could replace problematic diabetes treatment
A new Tel Aviv University study finds that consuming a starch-rich breakfast early in the morning and a small dinner may improve glycemic control among type 2 diabetics, reducing the need for insulin injections. The researchers' 3M-diet was shown to have significant benefits, including weight loss and improved sugar levels.
Researchers discover a new way in which insulin interacts with its receptor
Researchers have solved a critical piece of the puzzle by showing how insulin interacts with its receptor at a second binding site. This new understanding will allow researchers to design improved treatments for insulin-related disorders, such as diabetes.
WSU study shows insulin can increase mosquitoes' immunity to West Nile virus
A WSU study published in Cell Reports demonstrates that mammalian insulin activates an antiviral immunity pathway in mosquitoes, increasing their ability to suppress flavivirus infections. This discovery has the potential to inhibit the spread of West Nile virus and other diseases such as dengue and Zika.
Meal-detection technology brings 'artificial pancreas' one step closer to reality
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology developed a meal-detection system that can accurately calculate carbohydrate intake in real-time, allowing for faster insulin administration. The system's estimates are remarkably accurate, outperforming previous systems by up to 17 grams.
SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateNov 12, 2019
Researchers find new potential approach to type 2 diabetes treatment
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine discovered that higher levels of protein adipsin in the blood protect against type 2 diabetes. Adipsin helps shield pancreatic beta cells, improving insulin production and preventing cell death.
Research aims to make technologies for controlling blood sugar more accessible
A new project aims to create a smartphone app that helps manage life-saving devices for people with diabetes, focusing on the senior citizen population. The app will consider factors such as visual setup, font size, and user experience to make it easy to use, potentially improving quality of life.
Researchers engineer insulin-producing cells activated by light for diabetes
Scientists develop optogenetic approach to control glucose levels in diabetic mice, achieving improved tolerance and regulation of glucose without pharmacological intervention. The light-switchable cells can produce more than two- to three-fold the typical level of insulin in response to glucose levels.
Key mechanism in insulin release by cholesterol metabolite found
A new study by Lund University researchers has identified a key mechanism in insulin release by a cholesterol metabolite. The receptor GPR183 plays a major role in stimulating insulin secretion in human cells and rats.
Artificial pancreas system better controls blood glucose levels than current technology
A multicenter randomized clinical trial found that the new artificial pancreas system improved participants' blood glucose control throughout the day and overnight, outperforming existing treatments. The system significantly increased time with target blood glucose levels and showed improvements in other diabetes control measurements.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 24, 2019
Increase health benefits of exercise by working out before breakfast -- new research
A six-week study found that exercising before breakfast increased fat burn by 100% compared to after breakfast. This shift allowed for better insulin control, potentially lowering diabetes and heart disease risk.
Artificial pancreas system better controls blood glucose levels than current technology
A new artificial pancreas system improved participants' blood glucose control throughout the day and overnight, reducing the risk of low blood sugar levels. The system's advanced algorithms and safety features enabled users to achieve near-normal blood sugar levels every morning.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019
Artificial pancreas system better controls blood glucose levels than current technology
A new artificial pancreas system has been shown to improve blood glucose control throughout the day and overnight, offering a significant advantage over existing treatments for people with type 1 diabetes. The system, which automatically monitors and regulates blood glucose levels, was more effective than traditional therapies in achie...
Diabetes: A next-generation therapy soon available?
Researchers at UNIGE identified a protein called S100A9 that regulates blood glucose and lipids, improving glucose management and reducing harmful side effects in diabetic mice. A clinical trial is underway to test the safety and efficacy of this new therapy in humans.
New capsule can orally deliver drugs that usually have to be injected
Researchers developed a new oral delivery device that can carry insulin and other protein drugs, protecting them from the acidic environment of the stomach. The capsule contains microneedles that attach to the intestinal wall and release the drug for uptake into the bloodstream, enabling fast and pain-free delivery.
Diabetes advances poised to help manage blood sugar after meals
Advances in medications, lifestyle changes, and technologies can help manage post-meal blood sugar levels, but more research is needed to pinpoint a target range and improve clinical outcomes. Small lifestyle changes, such as eating protein and vegetables before carbohydrates, can also lower blood glucose levels.
Discontinuing insulin for older adults with type 2 diabetes
A study found that patients with poor health were more likely to continue taking insulin after age 75, despite guidelines recommending reduced treatment intensity. Discontinuing insulin may outweigh its benefits for older adults, especially those with multiple health conditions.
Use, discontinuation of insulin treatment among older adults
This observational study found that insulin treatment was used less frequently among older adults (75-79 years) in poor health compared to those in good health. The study also revealed higher discontinuation rates of insulin treatment among those in poor health, suggesting potential implications for diabetes management.
New mechanism for dysfunctional insulin release identified
Researchers at Uppsala University have identified a previously unknown protein, Sac2, that regulates insulin secretion from β-cells. Lowering Sac2 levels leads to reduced insulin secretion, highlighting the importance of fat composition on secretory granule function.
Type 2 diabetes is not just about insulin
Researchers at UNIGE found that the liver can produce glucose independently of hormonal signals, challenging the long-held belief about its role in glucose regulation. This autonomous glucose production may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes in patients with a fatty liver syndrome.
Pancreas on a chip
Researchers have developed an 'Islet-on-a-Chip' device that integrates organ-on-a-chip and stem-cell technologies to screen insulin-producing cells, test insulin-stimulating compounds, and study the fundamental biology of diabetes. The device makes it easier to monitor islet function and study cell therapies for diabetes.
NIH publishes largest genomic study on type 2 diabetes in sub-Saharan African populations
Researchers confirm known genomic variants and identify a novel ZRANB3 gene linked to T2D susceptibility in sub-Saharan Africans. The study's findings also suggest the gene may influence T2D development in other populations.
Ohio University research helps insulin-producing cells get their groove back
Researchers at Ohio University are investigating the pulsatility of pancreatic islets in an effort to prevent or reverse type 2 diabetes. By forcing exhausted beta cells to pulse, they aim to restore their healthy functioning and improve health prospects for patients with pre-diabetes and diabetes.
Insulin nasal spray may boost cognitive function in obese adolescents by improving connectivity
Researchers found that intranasal insulin delivery improves performance on memory tasks and increases brain connectivity in adolescents with high BMI. The study suggests that obesity-related cognitive impairment can be reversed by intranasal insulin.
Promising approach: Prevent diabetes with intermittent fasting
Researchers found that intermittent fasting reduced pancreatic fat in mice, a key finding in the development of type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that excess weight-induced fat accumulation in the pancreas contributes to the onset of diabetes.
Study suggests genetic testing for young people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
A study from Joslin Diabetes Center found that a minority of patients treated for decades with type 1 diabetes may have monogenic diabetes, which can be treated with oral drugs. The research suggests screening for genetic mutations in young people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes to identify potential treatment options.
Widespread disease diabetes: Why do beta cells refuse to release insulin?
A team of researchers has identified highly-connected cluster of 'leader' cells in the pancreas that coordinate insulin response and help understand how diabetes develops. By selectively deleting these leader cells, they disrupted the level of coordination in subsequent responses to glucose.
Combination medication helps patients with type 2 diabetes maintain blood sugar goals
A randomized clinical trial found that patients taking IDegLira achieved and maintained lower blood glucose levels for longer periods compared to those taking insulin only. The study showed improved outcomes without the need for additional therapy, reducing side effects often associated with insulin-only treatment.
Preliminary study finds health coaches and incentives help youth with type 1 diabetes
A 10-week pilot study integrated health coaching and incentives into standard treatment for pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes, lowering A1c levels by an average of .5%. Health coaches received greater empathy and engagement, while families benefited from personalized feedback and support.
Long-term islet transplant recipients show near-normal glucose control
Researchers found near-normal glycemic profiles in five long-term islet transplant recipients, with improved time-in-range metrics and reduced glucose variability. The study demonstrates the potential of islet transplantation as a successful long-term cell therapy for select patients with type 1 diabetes.
Newly discovered immune cell linked to type 1 diabetes
A newly discovered immune cell, the 'X cell', has been found to be a major driver of the autoimmune response believed to cause type 1 diabetes. The X cell can act as both a B cell and a T cell, amplifying the autoimmune response.
The insulin under the influence of light
Scientists uncover how light influences insulin sensitivity and metabolic homeostasis, shedding light on the circadian rhythms' impact on diabetes. The study suggests that taking into account time of day can help patients better manage their treatment and reduce risks associated with daily insulin injections.
Metals influence C-peptide hormone related to insulin
Researchers at the University of California, Davis have discovered that metals can subtly affect the structure of C-peptide, a hormone involved in insulin production. The study found that certain metals, such as copper and chromium, prevent cells from taking up C-peptide, while others like zinc do not.
Ultrasound used to trigger insulin release in mice shows promise for diabetes therapy
Researchers from George Washington University have successfully used ultrasound therapy to increase insulin levels in mice, providing a potential alternative to current treatments. The study found significant increases in blood insulin levels after exposure to ultrasonic pulses, but did not see the corresponding drop in glucose levels.
'Smart' insulin could prevent hypoglycemia during diabetes treatment
A new type of insulin called i-insulin was developed by UCLA researchers to help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent hypoglycemia. The smart insulin works like a 'smart key,' allowing glucose to enter cells while blocking excessive entry when blood sugar is normal.
SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2019
'Reporter islets' in the eye may predict autoimmunity in type 1 diabetes
Researchers have discovered that transplanted islets in the anterior chamber of the eye exhibit early signs of inflammation before type 1 diabetes symptoms appear, suggesting a potential biomarker for predicting disease development. Early intervention with immunosuppressive treatments may halt disease progression, and future studies ai...
A new system for treating type 1 diabetes mellitus
Researchers at the UPV/EHU-CIBER BBN have developed a new system for treating type 1 diabetes mellitus that reduces the technical problems associated with microencapsulating pancreatic islets. The innovative approach uses magnetic nanoparticles and a microfluidic chip to separate empty microcapsules from purified islets, resulting in a...
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·DateMay 10, 2019
Diabetes complications soar in the US, but not Canada, as teenagers become young adults
A new study found that hospitalizations for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) surge in the US among young adults, but remain relatively low in Canada. The disparity is attributed to differences in healthcare systems and access to insulin, with the US experiencing a significant increase in DKA rates as teenagers become young adults.
SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMay 8, 2019