Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Insulin insights

Researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered an unexpected mechanism by which insulin triggers changes to thousands of genes. The insulin receptor is physically transported to the cell nucleus and helps initiate the expression of insulin-related genes, providing new avenues for diabetes research and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateApr 4, 2019

Human cells can also change jobs

Researchers at UNIGE show that human pancreatic cells can be converted to produce insulin in a sustainable way, potentially compensating for lost or dysfunctional cells. The conversion was successful in both diabetic and non-diabetic donors, with modified alpha cells showing improved resistance to autoimmune diabetes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateFeb 13, 2019

New pill can deliver insulin

A new capsule has been developed to deliver oral doses of insulin, potentially replacing injections for people with type 2 diabetes. The capsule contains a small needle that releases insulin in the stomach, and its design allows it to orient itself to ensure contact with the stomach lining.

New hope for stem cell approach to treating diabetes

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed a new method for producing insulin-producing beta cells from human stem cells, which are more responsive to fluctuating glucose levels. The resulting cells were transplanted into diabetic mice and effectively controlled blood sugar for several months.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJan 17, 2019

Pilot study suggests pedal desks could address health risks of sedentary workplace

A recent pilot study by kinesiologists at UMass Amherst found that pedaling while working improved insulin responses to a test meal, with lower insulin levels observed when using a pedal desk compared to a standard desk. The study suggests that pedal desks could be a feasible solution for sedentary work environments.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateNov 8, 2018

High-tech breakthrough in snakebite antivenom

Researchers at DTU Bioengineering have developed a high-tech antivenom against black mamba venom using human antibodies, which can potentially save thousands of lives annually. The breakthrough antivenom uses a biotechnological method to discover human antibodies, allowing for large-scale production and industrial use.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 2, 2018

Open insulin, 'DIY bio' and the future of pharma

The DIY bio movement is disrupting the pharmaceutical industry with open-source protocols for manufacturing off-patent insulin, increasing competition and potentially making life-saving medicine more affordable. The Open Insulin Project, a case study, aims to develop and release an open-source protocol for manufacturing insulin.

SourceColorado State University·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateSep 13, 2018

A subway map for diabetes

University of Tokyo researchers have developed a trans-omics approach that maps the interactions between molecules inside cells in response to insulin. This comprehensive understanding may lead to better therapies for type 2 diabetes by identifying potential drug targets and optimizing insulin regimens.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaliScience·DateSep 10, 2018

Following Twitter conversations around hacked diabetes tools to manage blood sugar

Researchers analyzed Twitter conversations around OpenAPS, a DIY system combining off-the-shelf CGMs and insulin pumps, to understand its benefits and limitations. The study found that OpenAPS improved self-reported A1C and glucose variability while reducing daily distress and burden, but also raised concerns about safety and regulation.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of Diabetes Science and Technology·DateSep 10, 2018

Insulin gives an extra boost to the immune system

Researchers at Toronto General Hospital have identified a specific insulin signaling pathway that revs up the response of T cells in the immune system, enabling them to divide rapidly and secrete cytokines. This finding opens avenues for better regulating the immune system and potentially developing new therapies.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 30, 2018

Cross-sex hormone therapy raises risk for vascular events in transgender women

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine has found that cross-sex hormone therapy may increase the risk for certain vascular events among transgender women. The researchers compared the incidence rates of acute cardiovascular events in a large cohort of transgender persons with those observed in age-, race-, site-, and m...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 9, 2018