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Treating obesity via brain glucose sensing

A study published in PLOS Biology found that a defect in brain glucose sensing contributes to obesity, while correction of this defect can treat the condition. The researchers discovered a novel role for hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) in hypothalamic glucose sensing and whole-body energy balance regulation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 26, 2011

Indications of Alzheimer's disease may be evident decades before first signs of cognitive impairment

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that patients with Alzheimer's disease have lower glucose utilization in the brain, detectable approximately 20 years prior to symptoms. The study suggests that novel therapies could prevent the onset of Alzheimer's by addressing mitochondrial impairment.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalTranslational Neuroscience·DateMar 28, 2011

New molecular signaling cascade increases glucose uptake

Researchers identified a novel protein called SNARK, which plays a key role in regulating glucose transport during muscle contraction and exercise. The study shows that SNARK mediates contraction-stimulated glucose transport, providing an alternative pathway for increasing glucose uptake in individuals with insulin resistance.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2010

Hospital hyperglycemia may predict future diabetes

Researchers found a significant association between acute illness complicated with hyperglycaemia and the development of type II diabetes or glucose intolerance. Patients with hospital-acquired hyperglycaemia during critical illness are at increased risk of developing diabetes, suggesting regular monitoring is necessary.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateJul 7, 2010

Healthier cafeteria food, more intense gym classes lower students' diabetes risk

A national study called HEALTHY found that innovative PE programs, healthier food choices, and in-class lessons on healthy lifestyles can benefit children most at-risk for type 2 diabetes. After three years, students in intervention schools had a 21% lower rate of obesity and improved fasting insulin levels compared to comparison schools.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 27, 2010

Once-weekly exenatide injection improves blood sugar control more than daily oral sitagliptin or pioglitazone and induces more weight loss (DURATION-2 study)

The DURATION-2 study found that once-weekly exenatide improved HbA1c levels by 1.5% compared to 0.9% for sitagliptin and 1.2% for pioglitazone, with significant weight loss in the exenatide group. The findings suggest that exenatide should be considered as an adjunct to metformin for improving glucose control and weight loss.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 26, 2010

1 sleepless night can induce insulin resistance in healthy people

A new study found that just one night of short sleep duration can cause significant changes in metabolic regulation, leading to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in healthy individuals. Researchers used the hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp method to measure insulin sensitivity before and after a night of either normal ...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 5, 2010

The pig and its pancreas

A team of LMU researchers has created a genetically modified strain of pigs that consistently develop the essential symptoms of type 2 diabetes. The pigs' physiology is similar to humans', making them an ideal model system for studying the disease, testing new treatments and diagnostic methods.

Stress peptide and receptor may have role in diabetes

Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered that corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) plays a part in the pancreas, increasing insulin secretion and promoting beta cell division. This finding may provide new insights into diabetes, particularly type 1, and suggest novel targets for drug intervention.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2010

Obstructive sleep apnea may worsen diabetes

A study conducted by the University of Chicago found that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly worsens glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes. OSA severity is associated with poorer glycemic control and increased HbA1c levels, which can negate the effects of anti-diabetic medications.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 14, 2010