Short Communication, Endocrinol Diabetes Res Vol: 10 Issue: 5
Advances in Hormonal Regulation of Glucose Homeostasis in Type 2 Diabetes
Yuki Tanaka*
1Department of Diabetes Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
*Corresponding Author: Yuki Tanaka,
Department of Diabetes Research, Osaka
University, Osaka, Japan
E-mail: tanaka_yuki5225@edu.jp
Received date: 23 September, 2024, Manuscript No. ECDR-24-149293;
Editor assigned date: 25 September, 2024, PreQC No. ECDR-24-149293 (PQ);
Reviewed date: 09 October, 2024, QC No. ECDR-24-149293;
Revised date: 17 October, 2024, Manuscript No. ECDR-24-149293 (R);
Published date: 25 October, 2024, DOI: 10.4172/2324-8777.1000415
Citation: Tanaka Y (2024) Advances in Hormonal Regulation of Glucose Homeostasis in Type 2 Diabetes. Endocrinol Diabetes Res 10:5.
Abstract
Description
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition where the body struggles to manage blood sugar levels effectively. Central to this issue is how the body regulates glucose, a process significantly influenced by hormones. In recent years, considerable progress has been made in understanding and addressing the hormonal regulation of glucose in people with Type 2 diabetes, leading to more effective therapies. The hormones insulin and glucagon play a central role in glucose regulation. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, lowers blood glucose by enabling cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. Glucagon, also secreted by the pancreas, works in the opposite way, stimulating the liver to release stored glucose into the blood when levels fall too low. In Type 2 diabetes, these mechanisms become disrupted. Cells become resistant to insulin and the pancreas fails to produce sufficient amounts, leading to persistently high blood sugar [1-3].
Recent advances in medications aim to target this imbalance. For instance, GLP-1 receptor agonists enhance insulin secretion and suppress glucagon release, improving blood sugar control. The discovery of this therapeutic approach has transformed the treatment landscape, offering better long-term management of blood glucose. Incretins, hormones released from the gut after eating, also play a key role in glucose regulation. They stimulate insulin secretion in response to food intake and suppress glucagon production. GLP-1 (Glucagon- Like Peptide-1) and GIP (Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide) are the most well-known incretins. Research has uncovered how GLP-1 receptor agonists not only improve insulin production but also slow down gastric emptying, reducing appetite and supporting weight loss [4].
SGLT-2 inhibitors represent another area of innovation. These drugs block glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, allowing excess glucose to be excreted in the urine. This mechanism works independently of insulin, making it effective even for individuals with advanced insulin resistance. Beyond their blood sugar-lowering effects, SGLT-2 inhibitors have also been shown to have benefits for heart and kidney health, making them a valuable addition to the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Another hormone with a growing role in diabetes treatment is amylin. Released alongside insulin, amylin helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the rate at which food moves through the stomach and curbing glucagon secretion after meals. This action complements insulin, ensuring that blood glucose levels do not spike after eating. Amylin analogues, such as pramlintide, have been developed to copy the effects of this hormone. These analogues provide additional tools for managing glucose levels, especially in individuals who struggle with post-meal spikes in blood sugar [5,6].
A more recent discovery in the hormonal regulation of glucose homeostasis is Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21). This hormone, primarily secreted by the liver, has been shown to influence glucose and lipid metabolism. FGF21 improves insulin sensitivity and has been linked to weight loss, making it a potential target for diabetes therapy. Early clinical trials are exploring FGF21 analogues to assess their efficacy in lowering blood glucose and improving metabolic health. The role of stress hormones such as cortisol is also gaining attention. Cortisol, released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, can increase blood sugar levels by stimulating glucose production in the liver. In people with Type 2 diabetes, chronic stress can further complicate glucose management, making it harder to maintain stable blood sugar levels. This understanding has led to a greater emphasis on managing stress through lifestyle interventions, such as mindfulness and exercise, as part of a comprehensive diabetes care plan [7,8].
An intriguing area of recent research involves the gut microbiota and its influence on hormonal regulation of glucose. Studies suggest that gut bacteria can affect insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, possibly by interacting with hormones such as GLP-1. Though research in this field is still in its early stages, the potential for using probiotics or dietary interventions to modulate gut microbiota and improve glucose regulation is promising. As research progresses, there is growing hope for even more targeted therapies that address the complex hormonal imbalances in Type 2 diabetes. Current treatments that focus on insulin and glucagon are being expanded with new understanding into other hormones like amylin, GLP-1, FGF21 and even gut-derived signals. This expanding understanding of hormonal regulation offers a multi-faceted approach to glucose management, improving outcomes for people with diabetes [9,10].
The future of diabetes care lies in continuing to unravel these complex hormonal pathways and developing therapies that restore balance to the body’s glucose regulatory systems. With a deeper understanding of these mechanisms, healthcare professionals will be able to provide more personalized and effective treatments for individuals living with Type 2 diabetes.
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