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McGlone ER, Bloom SR, Tan TMM. Glucagon resistance and metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease: a review of the evidence. J Endocrinol 2024; 261:e230365. [PMID: 38579751 PMCID: PMC11067060 DOI: 10.1530/joe-23-0365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is closely associated with obesity. MASLD affects over 1 billion adults globally but there are few treatment options available. Glucagon is a key metabolic regulator, and its actions include the reduction of liver fat through direct and indirect means. Chronic glucagon signalling deficiency is associated with hyperaminoacidaemia, hyperglucagonaemia and increased circulating levels of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21). Reduction in glucagon activity decreases hepatic amino acid and triglyceride catabolism; metabolic effects include improved glucose tolerance, increased plasma cholesterol and increased liver fat. Conversely, glucagon infusion in healthy volunteers leads to increased hepatic glucose output, decreased levels of plasma amino acids and increased urea production, decreased plasma cholesterol and increased energy expenditure. Patients with MASLD share many hormonal and metabolic characteristics with models of glucagon signalling deficiency, suggesting that they could be resistant to glucagon. Although there are few studies of the effects of glucagon infusion in patients with obesity and/or MASLD, there is some evidence that the expected effect of glucagon on amino acid catabolism may be attenuated. Taken together, this evidence supports the notion that glucagon resistance exists in patients with MASLD and may contribute to the pathogenesis of MASLD. Further studies are warranted to investigate the direct effects of glucagon on metabolism in patients with MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Rose McGlone
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Stephen R Bloom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tricia M-M Tan
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
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2
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Winther-Sørensen M, Garcia SL, Bartholdy A, Ottenheijm ME, Banasik K, Brunak S, Sørensen CM, Gluud LL, Knop FK, Holst JJ, Rosenkilde MM, Jensen MK, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Determinants of plasma levels of proglucagon and the metabolic impact of glucagon receptor signalling: a UK Biobank study. Diabetologia 2024:10.1007/s00125-024-06160-1. [PMID: 38705923 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-024-06160-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESES Glucagon and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) are derived from the same precursor; proglucagon, and dual agonists of their receptors are currently being explored for the treatment of obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Elevated levels of endogenous glucagon (hyperglucagonaemia) have been linked with hyperglycaemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes but are also observed in individuals with obesity and MASLD. GLP-1 levels have been reported to be largely unaffected or even reduced in similar conditions. We investigated potential determinants of plasma proglucagon and associations of glucagon receptor signalling with metabolic diseases based on data from the UK Biobank. METHODS We used exome sequencing data from the UK Biobank for ~410,000 white participants to identify glucagon receptor variants and grouped them based on their known or predicted signalling. Data on plasma levels of proglucagon estimated using Olink technology were available for a subset of the cohort (~40,000). We determined associations of glucagon receptor variants and proglucagon with BMI, type 2 diabetes and liver fat (quantified by liver MRI) and performed survival analyses to investigate if elevated proglucagon predicts type 2 diabetes development. RESULTS Obesity, MASLD and type 2 diabetes were associated with elevated plasma levels of proglucagon independently of each other. Baseline proglucagon levels were associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes development over a 14 year follow-up period (HR 1.13; 95% CI 1.09, 1.17; n=1562; p=1.3×10-12). This association was of the same magnitude across strata of BMI. Carriers of glucagon receptor variants with reduced cAMP signalling had elevated levels of proglucagon (β 0.847; 95% CI 0.04, 1.66; n=17; p=0.04), and carriers of variants with a predicted frameshift mutation had higher levels of liver fat compared with the wild-type reference group (β 0.504; 95% CI 0.03, 0.98; n=11; p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Our findings support the suggestion that glucagon receptor signalling is involved in MASLD, that plasma levels of proglucagon are linked to the risk of type 2 diabetes development, and that proglucagon levels are influenced by genetic variation in the glucagon receptor, obesity, type 2 diabetes and MASLD. Determining the molecular signalling pathways downstream of glucagon receptor activation may guide the development of biased GLP-1/glucagon co-agonist with improved metabolic benefits. DATA AVAILABILITY All coding is available through https://github.com/nicwin98/UK-Biobank-GCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara L Garcia
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Bartholdy
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maud E Ottenheijm
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karina Banasik
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Brunak
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charlotte M Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette M Rosenkilde
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Majken K Jensen
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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3
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Lin YH, Zhang ZJ, Zhong JQ, Wang ZY, Peng YT, Lin YM, Zhang HP, Tian JQ. Semaglutide combined with empagliflozin vs. monotherapy for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes: Study protocol for a randomized clinical trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302155. [PMID: 38701096 PMCID: PMC11068176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is strongly associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Lifestyle intervention remains a preferred treatment modality for NAFLD. The glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors have been developed as new glucose-lowering drugs, which can improve fatty liver via an insulin-independent glucose-lowering effect. However, studies exploring the efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists combined with SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with NAFLD and T2DM are scanty. Thus, the present randomised controlled trial aims at comparing the efficacy and safety of semaglutide plus empagliflozin with each treatment alone in patients with NAFLD and T2DM. METHODS This 52-week double-blinded, randomised, parallel-group, active-controlled trial evaluates the effects of semaglutide, empagliflozin and semaglutide + empagliflozin in 105 eligible overweight/obese subjects with NAFLD and T2DM. The primary outcome will be a change from baseline to week 52 in the controlled attenuation parameter, free fatty acid and glucagon. Secondary endpoints include changes in liver stiffness measurement, liver enzymes, blood glucose, lipid levels, renal function, electrolyte balances, minerals and bone metabolism, cytokines, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, ferritin, anthropometric indicators, nonalcoholic fatty liver fibrosis score, fibrosis 4 score and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance. In addition, intention-to-treat, interim analysis and safety analysis will be performed. DISCUSSION This double-blinded, randomised, clinical trial involves a multi-disciplinary approach and aims to explore the synergistic effects of the combination of semaglutide and empagliflozin. The results can provide important insights into mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists and/or SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with NAFLD and T2DM. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study has been registered with Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300070674).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hao Lin
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jin-Qing Zhong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhi-Yi Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yi-Ting Peng
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongshan Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yan-Mei Lin
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Huo-Ping Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jian-Qing Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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Rix I, Johansen ML, Lund A, Suppli MP, Chabanova E, van Hall G, Holst JJ, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Kistorp C, Knop FK. Hyperglucagonaemia and amino acid alterations in individuals with type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Endocr Connect 2024; 13:e230161. [PMID: 37947763 PMCID: PMC10762555 DOI: 10.1530/ec-23-0161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Aims Hyperglucagonaemia contributes to the pathophysiology in type 2 diabetes (T2D), but the mechanisms behind the inappropriate glucagon secretion are not fully understood. Glucagon and amino acids are regulated in a feedback loop referred to as the liver-α cell axis. Individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) appear to be glucagon resistant, disrupting the liver-α cell axis resulting in hyperglucagonaemia and hyperaminoacidaemia. We investigated the associations between circulating glucagon, amino acids, and liver fat content in a cohort of individuals with T2D. Methods We included 110 individuals with T2D in this cross-sectional study. Liver fat content was quantified using 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Associations between liver fat content and plasma glucagon and amino acids, respectively, were estimated in multivariate linear regression analyses. Results Individuals with NAFLD (n = 52) had higher plasma glucagon concentrations than individuals without NAFLD (n = 58). The positive association between plasma glucagon concentrations and liver fat content was confirmed in the multivariable regression analyses. Plasma concentrations of isoleucine and glutamate were increased, and glycine and serine concentrations were decreased in individuals with NAFLD. Concentrations of other amino acids were similar between individuals with and without NAFLD, and no clear association was seen between liver fat content and amino acids in the regression analyses. Conclusion MRS-diagnosed NAFLD in T2D is associated with hyperglucagonaemia and elevated plasma concentrations of isoleucine and glutamate and low plasma concentrations of glycine and serine. Whether NAFLD and glucagon resistance per se induce these changes remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iben Rix
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
- Zealand Pharma A/S, Søborg, Denmark
| | - Marie L Johansen
- Department of Medicine, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Asger Lund
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Malte P Suppli
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Elizaveta Chabanova
- Department of Radiology, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Gerrit van Hall
- Clinical Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Caroline Kistorp
- Department of Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
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5
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Kjeldsen SA, Gluud LL, Werge MP, Pedersen JS, Bendtsen F, Alexiadou K, Tan T, Torekov SS, Iepsen EW, Jensen NJ, Richter MM, Goetze JP, Rungby J, Hartmann B, Holst JJ, Holst B, Holt J, Gustafsson F, Madsbad S, Svane MS, Bojsen-Møller KN, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Neprilysin activity is increased in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and normalizes after bariatric surgery or GLP-1 therapy. iScience 2023; 26:108190. [PMID: 37953952 PMCID: PMC10638073 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibitors of neprilysin improve glycemia in patients with heart failure and type 2 diabetes (T2D). The effect of weight loss by diet, surgery, or pharmacotherapy on neprilysin activity (NEPa) is unknown. We investigated circulating NEPa and neprilysin protein concentrations in obesity, T2D, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and following bariatric surgery, or GLP-1-receptor-agonist therapy. NEPa, but not neprilysin protein, was enhanced in obesity, T2D, and MASLD. Notably, MASLD associated with NEPa independently of BMI and HbA1c. NEPa decreased after bariatric surgery with a concurrent increase in OGTT-stimulated GLP-1. Diet-induced weight loss did not affect NEPa, but individuals randomized to 52-week weight maintenance with liraglutide (1.2 mg/day) decreased NEPa, consistent with another study following 6-week liraglutide (3 mg/day). A 90-min GLP-1 infusion did not alter NEPa. Thus, MASLD may drive exaggerated NEPa, and lowered NEPa following bariatric surgery or liraglutide therapy may contribute to the reported improved cardiometabolic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha A.S. Kjeldsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise L. Gluud
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel P. Werge
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Julie S. Pedersen
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kleopatra Alexiadou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
| | - Tricia Tan
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
| | - Signe S. Torekov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva W. Iepsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicole J. Jensen
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Michael M. Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens P. Goetze
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Rungby
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Bolette Hartmann
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J. Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joachim Holt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Finn Gustafsson
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sten Madsbad
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Maria S. Svane
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Kirstine N. Bojsen-Møller
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J. Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kjeldsen SAS, Thomsen MN, Skytte MJ, Samkani A, Richter MM, Frystyk J, Magkos F, Hansen E, Thomsen HS, Holst JJ, Madsbad S, Haugaard SB, Krarup T, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Markers of Glucagon Resistance Improve With Reductions in Hepatic Steatosis and Body Weight in Type 2 Diabetes. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad122. [PMID: 37818402 PMCID: PMC10561012 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Hyperglucagonemia may develop in type 2 diabetes due to obesity-prone hepatic steatosis (glucagon resistance). Markers of glucagon resistance (including the glucagon-alanine index) improve following diet-induced weight loss, but the partial contribution of lowering hepatic steatosis vs body weight is unknown. Objective This work aimed to investigate the dependency of body weight loss following a reduction in hepatic steatosis on markers of glucagon resistance in type 2 diabetes. Methods A post hoc analysis was conducted from 2 previously published randomized controlled trials. We investigated the effect of weight maintenance (study 1: isocaloric feeding) or weight loss (study 2: hypocaloric feeding), both of which induced reductions in hepatic steatosis, on markers of glucagon sensitivity, including the glucagon-alanine index measured using a validated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and metabolomics in 94 individuals (n = 28 in study 1; n = 66 in study 2). Individuals with overweight or obesity with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to a 6-week conventional diabetes (CD) or carbohydrate-reduced high-protein (CRHP) diet within both isocaloric and hypocaloric feeding-interventions. Results By design, weight loss was greater after hypocaloric compared to isocaloric feeding, but both diets caused similar reductions in hepatic steatosis, allowing us to investigate the effect of reducing hepatic steatosis with or without a clinically relevant weight loss on markers of glucagon resistance. The glucagon-alanine index improved following hypocaloric, but not isocaloric, feeding, independently of macronutrient composition. Conclusion Improvements in glucagon resistance may depend on body weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Mads N Thomsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
| | - Mads J Skytte
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
| | - Amirsalar Samkani
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
| | - Michael M Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Jan Frystyk
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, 5000, Denmark
| | - Faidon Magkos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, 1958, Denmark
| | - Elizaveta Hansen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Herlev, Herlev, 2730, Denmark
| | - Henrik S Thomsen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Herlev, Herlev, 2730, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Sten Madsbad
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Hvidovre, Hvidovre, 2650, Denmark
| | - Steen B Haugaard
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Thure Krarup
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, 1958, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
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7
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McGlone ER, Siebert M, Dore M, Hope DCD, Davies I, Owen B, Khoo B, Goldin R, Carling D, Bloom S, Le Gall M, Tan TM. Sleeve gastrectomy causes weight-loss independent improvements in hepatic steatosis. Liver Int 2023; 43:1890-1900. [PMID: 37208943 PMCID: PMC10947097 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) leads to improvement in hepatic steatosis, associated with weight loss. The aims of this study were to investigate whether VSG leads to weight-loss independent improvements in liver steatosis in mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO); and to metabolically and transcriptomically profile hepatic changes in mice undergoing VSG. METHODS Mice with DIO were treated with VSG, sham surgery with subsequent food restriction to weight-match to the VSG group (Sham-WM), or sham surgery with return to unrestricted diet (Sham-Ad lib). Hepatic steatosis, glucose tolerance, insulin and glucagon resistance, and hepatic transcriptomics were investigated at the end of the study period and treatment groups were compared with mice undergoing sham surgery only (Sham-Ad lib). RESULTS VSG led to much greater improvement in liver steatosis than Sham-WM (liver triglyceride mg/mg 2.5 ± 0.1, 2.1 ± 0.2, 1.6 ± 0.1 for Sham-AL, Sham-WM and VSG respectively; p = 0.003). Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance was improved following VSG only (51.2 ± 8.8, 36.3 ± 5.3, 22.3 ± 6.1 for Sham-AL, Sham-WM and VSG respectively; p = 0.03). The glucagon-alanine index, a measure of glucagon resistance, fell with VSG but was significantly increased in Sham-WM (9.8 ± 1.7, 25.8 ± 4.6 and 5.2 ± 1.2 in Sham Ad-lib, Sham-WM and VSG respectively; p = 0.0003). Genes downstream of glucagon receptor signalling which govern fatty acid synthesis (Acaca, Acacb, Me1, Acly, Fasn and Elovl6) were downregulated following VSG but upregulated in Sham-WM. CONCLUSIONS Changes in glucagon sensitivity may contribute to weight-loss independent improvements in hepatic steatosis following VSG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Rose McGlone
- Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Matthieu Siebert
- Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, UMRS1149, Inserm, Université Paris CitéParisFrance
| | - Marian Dore
- Genomics FacilityMRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), Imperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - David C. D. Hope
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Iona Davies
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Bryn Owen
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Bernard Khoo
- Division of MedicineUniversity College London, Royal Free HospitalLondonUK
| | - Rob Goldin
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Dave Carling
- Cellular Stress GroupMRC LMS, Imperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Stephen Bloom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Maude Le Gall
- Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, UMRS1149, Inserm, Université Paris CitéParisFrance
| | - Tricia M‐M. Tan
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and ReproductionImperial College LondonLondonUK
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8
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Chen X, Merovci A, DeFronzo RA, Tripathy D. Chronic physiologic hyperglycemia impairs insulin-mediated suppression of plasma glucagon concentration in healthy humans. Metabolism 2023; 142:155512. [PMID: 36746320 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hyperglucagonemia is a characteristic feature of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We examined the effect of chronic (48-72 h) physiologic increase (+50 mg/dl) in plasma glucose concentration on suppression of plasma glucagon concentration by insulin and by hyperglycemia in normal glucose tolerance (NGT) individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study One: 16 NGT subjects received OGTT and 3-step hyperinsulinemic (10, 20, 40 mU/m2·min) euglycemic clamp before and after 48 hour glucose infusion to increase plasma glucose by ~50 mg/dl. Study Two: 20 NGT subjects received OGTT and 2-step hyperglycemic (+125 and + 300 mg/dl) clamp before and after 72 hour glucose infusion. Plasma insulin, C-peptide and glucagon concentrations were measured during OGTT, euglycemic hyperinsulinemic and hyperglycemic clamps. Ratio of plasma glucagon/insulin was used as an index of insulin-mediated suppression of glucagon secretion. RESULTS During all 3 insulin clamp steps (Study 1), plasma glucagon concentration was increased compared to baseline study, and plasma glucagon/insulin ratio was significantly reduced by 24 % (p < 0.05). The rate of insulin-stimulated glucose disposal was inversely correlated with plasma glucagon/insulin ratio (r = -0.44, p < 0.05) and with glucagon AUC (r = -0.48, p < 0.05). During the 2-step hyperglycemic clamp (Study 2) plasma glucagon was similar before and after 72 h of glucose infusion; however, glucagon/insulin ratio was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Incremental area under plasma insulin curve during the first (r = -0.74, p < 0.001) and second (r = -0.85, p < 0.001) hyperglycemic clamp steps was strongly and inversely correlated with plasma glucagon/insulin ratio. CONCLUSION Sustained (48-72 h) physiologic hyperglycemia (+50 mg/dl) caused whole body insulin resistance and impaired insulin-mediated suppression of glucagon secretion, suggesting a role for glucotoxicity in development of hyperglucagonemia in T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Medicine, Diabetes Division, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Aurora Merovci
- Department of Medicine, Diabetes Division, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Ralph A DeFronzo
- Department of Medicine, Diabetes Division, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital, South Texas Veterans Heath Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Devjit Tripathy
- Department of Medicine, Diabetes Division, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA; Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital, South Texas Veterans Heath Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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9
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Caruso I, Marrano N, Biondi G, Genchi VA, D'Oria R, Sorice GP, Perrini S, Cignarelli A, Natalicchio A, Laviola L, Giorgino F. Glucagon in type 2 diabetes: Friend or foe? Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2023; 39:e3609. [PMID: 36637256 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.3609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hyperglucagonemia is one of the 'ominous' eight factors underlying the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Glucagon is a peptide hormone involved in maintaining glucose homoeostasis by increasing hepatic glucose output to counterbalance insulin action. Long neglected, the introduction of dual and triple agonists exploiting glucagon signalling pathways has rekindled the interest in this hormone beyond its classic effect on glycaemia. Glucagon can promote weight loss by regulating food intake, energy expenditure, and brown and white adipose tissue functions through mechanisms still to be fully elucidated, thus its role in T2D pathogenesis should be further investigated. Moreover, the role of glucagon in the development of T2D micro- and macro-vascular complications is elusive. Mounting evidence suggests its beneficial effect in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, while few studies postulated its favourable role in peripheral neuropathy and retinopathy. Contrarily, glucagon receptor agonism might induce renal changes resembling diabetic nephropathy, and data concerning glucagon actions on the cardiovascular system are conflicting. This review aims to summarise the available findings on the role of glucagon in the pathogenesis of T2D and its complications. Further experimental and clinical data are warranted to better understand the implications of glucagon signalling modulation with new antidiabetic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Caruso
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Marrano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Biondi
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Valentina Annamaria Genchi
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Rossella D'Oria
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Gian Pio Sorice
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Sebastio Perrini
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Angelo Cignarelli
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Annalisa Natalicchio
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Luigi Laviola
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Giorgino
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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10
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Kjeldsen SAS, Richter MM, Jensen NJ, Nilsson MSD, Heinz N, Nybing JD, Linden FH, Høgh-Schmidt E, Boesen MP, Madsbad S, Vilstrup H, Schiødt FV, Møller A, Nørgaard K, Schmidt S, Rashu EB, Gluud LL, Haugaard SB, Holst JJ, Rungby J, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Development of a glucagon sensitivity test in humans: Pilot data and the GLUSENTIC study protocol. Peptides 2023; 161:170938. [PMID: 36596314 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A physiological feedback system exists between hepatocytes and the alpha cells, termed the liver-alpha cell axis and refers to the relationship between amino acid-stimulated glucagon secretion and glucagon-stimulated amino acid catabolism. Several reports indicate that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) disrupts the liver-alpha cell axis, because of impaired glucagon receptor signaling (glucagon resistance). However, no experimental test exists to assess glucagon resistance in humans. The objective was to develop an experimental test to determine glucagon sensitivity with respect to amino acid and glucose metabolism in humans. The proposed glucagon sensitivity test (comprising two elements: 1) i.v. injection of 0.2 mg glucagon and 2) infusion of mixed amino acids 331 mg/hour/kg) is based on nine pilot studies which are presented. Calculation of a proposed glucagon sensitivity index with respect to amino acid catabolism is also described. Secondly, we describe a complete study protocol (GLUSENTIC) according to which the glucagon sensitivity test will be applied in a cross-sectional study currently taking place. 65 participants including 20 individuals with a BMI 18.6-25 kg/m2, 30 individuals with a BMI ≥ 25-40 kg/m2, and 15 individuals with type 1 diabetes with a BMI between 18.6 and 40 kg/m2 will be included. Participants will be grouped according to their degree of hepatic steatosis measured by whole-liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The primary outcome measure will be differences in the glucagon sensitivity index between individuals with and without hepatic steatosis. Developing a glucagon sensitivity test and index may provide insight into the physiological and pathophysiological mechanism of glucagon action and glucagon-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael M Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicole J Jensen
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Malin S D Nilsson
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niklas Heinz
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janus D Nybing
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik H Linden
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik Høgh-Schmidt
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikael P Boesen
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sten Madsbad
- Department of Endocrinology, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Andreas Møller
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Nørgaard
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | - Elias B Rashu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lise L Gluud
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steen B Haugaard
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Rungby
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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11
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Lønsmann I, Steen Pedersen J, Krag A, Hansen T, Karsdal M, Julie Leeming D, Juul Nielsen M, Bendtsen F. Biomarkers reflecting pericellular fibrosis improve together with liver histology after bariatric surgery in early non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Clin Biochem 2023; 113:29-35. [PMID: 36574896 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM Non-invasive tests for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are needed for assessing disease stage, prognosis and treatment efficacy. Extracellular matrix biomarkers, such as PRO-C3, are useful as biomarkers of advanced liver fibrosis. However, non-invasive biomarkers of early-stage NAFLD, characterized by pericellular fibrosis, are lacking. Here, we measured serological biomarkers of type IV and VIII collagens reflecting the remodeling of the pericellular basement membrane to explore the effect of bariatric surgery on pericellular fibrosis in patients with early NAFLD. METHODS Seventy patients with severe obesity underwent bariatric surgery. The cohort consisted of 61 % females who had a mean age of 44. Patients had a median NAFLD activity score of 3 and mild-to-moderate fibrosis F0 (3 %), F1 (86 %), and F2 (11 %). Blood samples were taken at baseline, three, six and 12 months after surgery. At 12 months, 40 patients had a follow-up liver biopsy. The biomarkers PRO-C3, PRO-C4, C4M, and PRO-C8 were measured using indirect competitive ELISAs. RESULTS Twelve months after surgery patients had significantly lower levels of ALT, GGT, HbA1c, fasting glucose, and CRP. The pericellular fibrosis biomarkers, C4M, PRO-C4, and PRO-C8 decreased by 24 %, 18 % and 44 %, respectively (p < 0.0001), while the interstitial matrix fibrosis marker PRO-C3 remained unchanged. Furthermore, baseline C4M was associated with histologically assessed hepatocyte ballooning and lobular inflammation in patients with (p = 0.032) and without (p = 0.032) steatosis, respectively. CONCLUSION Biomarkers of pericellular fibrosis decrease in early-stage NAFLD after patients undergo bariatric surgery and potentially reflect an improvement in liver histology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Lønsmann
- Nordic Bioscience A/S, Herlev, Denmark; University of Southern Denmark, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Research, Odense, Denmark.
| | | | - Aleksander Krag
- University of Southern Denmark, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Research, Odense, Denmark; Odense University Hospital, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Torben Hansen
- University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Hvidovre Hospital, Gastrounit, Hvidovre, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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12
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Winther-Sørensen M, Holst JJ, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. The feedback cycles between glucose, amino acids and lipids and alpha cell secretion and their role in metabolic fatty liver disease. Curr Opin Lipidol 2023; 34:27-31. [PMID: 36373738 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0000000000000857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Glucagon increases hepatic glucose production and in patients with metabolic diseases, glucagon secretion is increased contributing to diabetic hyperglycemia. This review explores the role of amino acids and lipids in the regulation of glucagon secretion and how it may be disturbed in metabolic diseases such as obesity and metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). RECENT FINDINGS Human and animal studies have shown that MAFLD is associated with glucagon resistance towards amino acid catabolism, resulting in elevated plasma levels of amino acids. A recent clinical study showed that MAFLD is also associated with glucagon resistance towards lipid metabolism. In contrast, MAFLD may not decrease hepatic sensitivity to the stimulatory effects of glucagon on glucose production. SUMMARY Elevated plasma levels of amino acids and lipids associated with MAFLD may cause diabetogenic hyperglucagonemia. MAFLD and glucagon resistance may therefore be causally linked to hyperglycemia and the development of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
| | | | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Thymiakou E, Tzardi M, Kardassis D. Impaired hepatic glucose metabolism and liver-α-cell axis in mice with liver-specific ablation of the Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4α (Hnf4a) gene. Metabolism 2023; 139:155371. [PMID: 36464036 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2022.155371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hnf4a gene ablation in mouse liver causes hepatic steatosis, perturbs HDL structure and function and affects many pathways and genes related to glucose metabolism. Our aim here was to investigate the role of liver HNF4A in glucose homeostasis. METHODS Serum and tissue samples were obtained from Alb-Cre;Hnf4afl/fl (H4LivKO) mice and their littermate Hnf4afl/fl controls. Fasting glucose and insulin, glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance and glucagon challenge tests were performed by standard procedures. Binding of HNF4A to DNA was assessed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Gene expression analysis was performed by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. RESULTS H4LivKO mice presented lower blood levels of fasting glucose, improved glucose tolerance, increased serum lactate levels and reduced response to glucagon challenge compared to their control littermates. Insulin signaling in the liver was reduced despite the increase in serum insulin levels. H4LivKO mice showed altered expression of genes involved in glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and glycogen metabolism in the liver. The expression of the gene encoding the glucagon receptor (Gcgr) was markedly reduced in H4LivKO liver and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed specific and strong binding of HNF4A to the Gcgr promoter. H4LivKO mice presented increased amino acid concentration in the serum, α-cell hyperplasia and a dramatic increase in glucagon levels suggesting an impairment of the liver-α-cell axis. Glucose administration in the drinking water of H4LivKO mice resulted in an impressive extension of survival. The expression of several genes related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression to more severe liver pathologies, including Mcp1, Gdf15, Igfbp-1 and Hmox1, was increased in H4LivKO mice as early as 6 weeks of age and this increased expression was sustained until the endpoint of the study. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal a novel role of liver HNF4A in controlling blood glucose levels via regulation of glucagon signaling. In combination with the steatotic phenotype, our results suggest that H4LivKO mice could serve as a valuable model for studying glucose homeostasis in the context of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathia Thymiakou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71003, Greece; Gene Regulation and Epigenetics group, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology of Hellas, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Maria Tzardi
- Department of Pathology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Dimitris Kardassis
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71003, Greece; Gene Regulation and Epigenetics group, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology of Hellas, Heraklion 71003, Greece.
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14
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Pixner T, Stummer N, Schneider AM, Lukas A, Gramlinger K, Julian V, Thivel D, Mörwald K, Mangge H, Dalus C, Aigner E, Furthner D, Weghuber D, Maruszczak K. The relationship between glucose and the liver-alpha cell axis - A systematic review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1061682. [PMID: 36686477 PMCID: PMC9849557 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1061682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Until recently, glucagon was considered a mere antagonist to insulin, protecting the body from hypoglycemia. This notion changed with the discovery of the liver-alpha cell axis (LACA) as a feedback loop. The LACA describes how glucagon secretion and pancreatic alpha cell proliferation are stimulated by circulating amino acids. Glucagon in turn leads to an upregulation of amino acid metabolism and ureagenesis in the liver. Several increasingly common diseases (e.g., non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity) disrupt this feedback loop. It is important for clinicians and researchers alike to understand the liver-alpha cell axis and the metabolic sequelae of these diseases. While most of previous studies have focused on fasting concentrations of glucagon and amino acids, there is limited knowledge of their dynamics after glucose administration. The authors of this systematic review applied PRISMA guidelines and conducted PubMed searches to provide results of 8078 articles (screened and if relevant, studied in full). This systematic review aims to provide better insight into the LACA and its mediators (amino acids and glucagon), focusing on the relationship between glucose and the LACA in adult and pediatric subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Pixner
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Nathalie Stummer
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anna Maria Schneider
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Andreas Lukas
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Karin Gramlinger
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
| | - Valérie Julian
- Department of Sport Medicine and Functional Explorations, Diet and Musculoskeletal Health Team, Human Nutrition Research Center (CRNH), INRA, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - David Thivel
- Laboratory of Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise under Physiological and Pathological Conditions (AME2P), University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Katharina Mörwald
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Harald Mangge
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Christopher Dalus
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Elmar Aigner
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- First Department of Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Dieter Furthner
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Daniel Weghuber
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Katharina Maruszczak
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
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15
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Lützhøft DO, Sinioja T, Christoffersen BØ, Jakobsen RR, Geng D, Ahmad HFB, Straarup EM, Pedersen KM, Kot W, Pedersen HD, Cirera S, Hyötyläinen T, Nielsen DS, Hansen AK. Marked gut microbiota dysbiosis and increased imidazole propionate are associated with a NASH Göttingen Minipig model. BMC Microbiol 2022; 22:287. [DOI: 10.1186/s12866-022-02704-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Gut microbiota dysbiosis is associated with the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) through modulation of gut barrier, inflammation, lipid metabolism, bile acid signaling and short-chain fatty acid production. The aim of this study was to describe the impact of a choline-deficient amino acid defined high fat diet (CDAHFD) on the gut microbiota in a male Göttingen Minipig model and on selected pathways implicated in the development of NASH.
Results
Eight weeks of CDAHFD resulted in a significantly altered colon microbiota mainly driven by the bacterial families Lachnospiraceae and Enterobacteriaceae, being decreased and increased in relative abundance, respectively. Metabolomics analysis revealed that CDAHFD decreased colon content of short-chain fatty acid and increased colonic pH. In addition, serum levels of the microbially produced metabolite imidazole propionate were significantly elevated as a consequence of CDAHFD feeding. Hepatic gene expression analysis showed upregulation of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and Ras Homolog, MTORC1 binding in addition to downregulation of insulin receptor substrate 1, insulin receptor substrate 2 and the glucagon receptor in CDAHFD fed minipigs. Further, the consequences of CDAHFD feeding were associated with increased levels of circulating cholesterol, bile acids, and glucagon but not total amino acids.
Conclusions
Our results indicate imidazole propionate as a new potentially relevant factor in relation to NASH and discuss the possible implication of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the development of NASH. In addition, the study emphasizes the need for considering the gut microbiota and its products when developing translational animal models for NASH.
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16
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Capozzi ME, D'Alessio DA, Campbell JE. The past, present, and future physiology and pharmacology of glucagon. Cell Metab 2022; 34:1654-1674. [PMID: 36323234 PMCID: PMC9641554 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of glucagon has seen the transition from an impurity in the preparation of insulin to the development of glucagon receptor agonists for use in type 1 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, glucagon receptor antagonists have been explored to reduce glycemia thought to be induced by hyperglucagonemia. However, the catabolic actions of glucagon are currently being leveraged to target the rise in obesity that paralleled that of diabetes, bringing the pharmacology of glucagon full circle. During this evolution, the physiological importance of glucagon advanced beyond the control of hepatic glucose production, incorporating critical roles for glucagon to regulate both lipid and amino acid metabolism. Thus, it is unsurprising that the study of glucagon has left several paradoxes that make it difficult to distill this hormone down to a simplified action. Here, we describe the history of glucagon from the past to the present and suggest some direction to the future of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Capozzi
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - David A D'Alessio
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Division, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Jonathan E Campbell
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Division, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
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17
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Richter MM, Galsgaard KD, Elmelund E, Knop FK, Suppli MP, Holst JJ, Winther-Sørensen M, Kjeldsen SA, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. The Liver-α-Cell Axis in Health and in Disease. Diabetes 2022; 71:1852-1861. [PMID: 35657688 PMCID: PMC9862287 DOI: 10.2337/dbi22-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon and insulin are the main regulators of blood glucose. While the actions of insulin are extensively mapped, less is known about glucagon. Besides glucagon's role in glucose homeostasis, there are additional links between the pancreatic α-cells and the hepatocytes, often collectively referred to as the liver-α-cell axis, that may be of importance for health and disease. Thus, glucagon receptor antagonism (pharmacological or genetic), which disrupts the liver-α-cell axis, results not only in lower fasting glucose but also in reduced amino acid turnover and dyslipidemia. Here, we review the actions of glucagon on glucose homeostasis, amino acid catabolism, and lipid metabolism in the context of the liver-α-cell axis. The concept of glucagon resistance is also discussed, and we argue that the various elements of the liver-α-cell axis may be differentially affected in metabolic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This conceptual rethinking of glucagon biology may explain why patients with type 2 diabetes have hyperglucagonemia and how NAFLD disrupts the liver-α-cell axis, compromising the normal glucagon-mediated enhancement of substrate-induced amino acid turnover and possibly fatty acid β-oxidation. In contrast to amino acid catabolism, glucagon-induced glucose production may not be affected by NAFLD, explaining the diabetogenic effect of NAFLD-associated hyperglucagonemia. Consideration of the liver-α-cell axis is essential to understanding the complex pathophysiology underlying diabetes and other metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M. Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Diagnostic Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine D. Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emilie Elmelund
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip K. Knop
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Malte P. Suppli
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Jens J. Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sasha A.S. Kjeldsen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J. Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Diagnostic Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital—Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark
- Corresponding author: Nicolai J. Wewer Albrechtsen,
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Four weeks treatment with the GLP-1 receptor analogue liraglutide lowers liver fat and concomitantly circulating glucagon in individuals with overweight. Int J Obes (Lond) 2022; 46:2058-2062. [PMID: 35982119 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-022-01207-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effect of pharmacologically induced weight loss on markers of glucagon resistance in individuals with overweight during treatment with the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist liraglutide. We performed an open-label study in 14 men with overweight (age 38 ± 11 years, BMI 32 ± 4 kg/m2) without simultaneously diabetes. Subjects were treated with liraglutide, initiated and titrated with 0.6 mg/day/week to reach the final dose of 3.0 mg/day. Subjects were examined at baseline, during titration (Week 4), after 2 weeks of steady state (Week 6) of final dosing of liraglutide and 3 weeks after discontinuation of liraglutide (follow-up). Study participants lost 3.3 ± 1.9 kg (3%) total body weight during the first 4 weeks of treatment with liraglutide. Simultaneously, liver fat content decreased from 12.4 ± 11.6% to 10.2 ± 11.1%, p = 0.025, whereas fat content in the spleen and subcutaneous tissue was unaltered. Markers of glucagon resistance, including plasma glucagon and the glucagon-alanine-index, also decreased significantly during treatment, but total and individual plasma amino acid concentrations did not. Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was unchanged during treatment, whereas insulin clearance increased. Treatment with the GLP-1 receptor analogue liraglutide decreased liver fat content, and simultaneously attenuated glucagon concentrations and the glucagon-alanine index in individuals with overweight without diabetes.
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Roy MA, Gridley CK, Li S, Park Y, Timme-Laragy AR. Nrf2a dependent and independent effects of early life exposure to 3,3'-dichlorobiphenyl (PCB-11) in zebrafish (Danio rerio). AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 249:106219. [PMID: 35700651 PMCID: PMC9701526 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The environmental pollutant 3,3'-dichlorobiphenyl (PCB-11) is a lower-chlorinated polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener present in air and water samples. Both PCB-11 and its metabolite, 4-PCB-11-Sulfate, are detected in humans, including in pregnant women. Previous research in zebrafish (Danio rerio) has shown that 0.2 μM exposures to 4-PCB-11-Sulfate starting at 1 day post fertilization (dpf) increase hepatic neutral lipid accumulation in larvae at 15 dpf. Here, we explored whether nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), known as the master-regulator of the adaptive response to oxidative stress, contributes to metabolic impacts of 4-PCB-11-Sulfate. For this work, embryos were collected from homozygous wildtype or Nrf2a mutant adult zebrafish that also express GFP in pancreatic β-cells, rendering Tg(ins:GFP;nrf2afh318+/+) and Tg(ins:GFP;nrf2afh318-/-) lines. Exposures were conducted from 1-15 dpf to either 0.05% DMSO or DMSO-matched 0.2 µM 4-PCB-11-Sulfate, and at 15 dpf subsets of larvae were imaged for overall morphology, primary pancreatic islet area, and collected for fatty acid profiling and RNAseq. At 15 dpf, independent of genotype, fish exposed to 4-PCB-11-Sulfate survived significantly more at 80-85% compared to 65-73% survival for unexposed fish, and had primary pancreatic islets 8% larger compared to unexposed fish. Fish growth at 15 dpf was dependent on genotype, with Nrf2a mutant fish a significant 3-5% shorter than wildtype fish, and an interaction effect was observed where Nrf2a mutant fish exposed to 4-PCB-11-Sulfate experienced a significant 29% decrease in the omega-3 fatty acid DHA compared to unexposed mutant fish. RNAseq revealed 308 differentially expressed genes, most of which were dependent on genotype. These findings suggest that Nrf2a plays an important role in growth as well as for DHA production in the presence of 4-PCB-11-Sulfate. Further research would be beneficial to understand the importance of Nrf2a throughout the lifecourse, especially in the context of toxicant exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika A Roy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 171B Goessmann Building, 686 N Pleasant St, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Biotechnology Training Program, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Charlotte K Gridley
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 171B Goessmann Building, 686 N Pleasant St, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Sida Li
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Yeonhwa Park
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Alicia R Timme-Laragy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 171B Goessmann Building, 686 N Pleasant St, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
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20
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Del Prato S, Gallwitz B, Holst JJ, Meier JJ. The incretin/glucagon system as a target for pharmacotherapy of obesity. Obes Rev 2022; 23:e13372. [PMID: 34713962 PMCID: PMC9286339 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial, relapsing disease. Despite multicomponent lifestyle interventions, including pharmacotherapy, maintaining bodyweight loss is challenging for many people. The pathophysiology of obesity is complex, and currently approved pharmacotherapies only target a few of the many pathways involved; thus, single-targeting agents have limited efficacy. Proglucagon-derived peptides, glucagon, and the incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), represent attractive targets for managing obesity and metabolic disorders because they may have direct roles in multiple mechanisms including satiety, energy homeostasis, and lipolytic activity. Unimolecular dual and triple agonists targeting glucagon and incretin hormone receptors have been shown to promote bodyweight loss, lower glucose levels, and reduce food intake in animal models of obesity. Multiple dual receptor agonists are in clinical development for the treatment of obesity, including GLP-1/GIP and GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonists. The extent to which glucagon contributes to treatment effects remains to be understood, but it may promote bodyweight loss by reducing food intake, while concomitant GLP-1 receptor agonism ensures normal glucose control. Further research is required to fully understand the molecular mechanisms of action and metabolic effects of both dual and triple receptor agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Del Prato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Baptist Gallwitz
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany.,Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jens Juul Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Juris J Meier
- Division of Diabetology, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University, Bochum, Germany
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21
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Role of Mitochondrial Cytochrome P450 2E1 in Healthy and Diseased Liver. Cells 2022; 11:cells11020288. [PMID: 35053404 PMCID: PMC8774478 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) is pivotal in hepatotoxicity induced by alcohol abuse and different xenobiotics. In this setting, CYP2E1 generates reactive metabolites inducing oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death. In addition, this enzyme appears to play a role in the progression of obesity-related fatty liver to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Indeed, increased CYP2E1 activity in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is deemed to induce reactive oxygen species overproduction, which in turn triggers oxidative stress, necroinflammation and fibrosis. In 1997, Avadhani’s group reported for the first time the presence of CYP2E1 in rat liver mitochondria, and subsequent investigations by other groups confirmed that mitochondrial CYP2E1 (mtCYP2E1) could be found in different experimental models. In this review, we first recall the main features of CYP2E1 including its role in the biotransformation of endogenous and exogenous molecules, the regulation of its expression and activity and its involvement in different liver diseases. Then, we present the current knowledge on the physiological role of mtCYP2E1, its contribution to xenobiotic biotransformation as well as the mechanism and regulation of CYP2E1 targeting to mitochondria. Finally, we discuss experimental investigations suggesting that mtCYP2E1 could have a role in alcohol-associated liver disease, xenobiotic-induced hepatotoxicity and NAFLD.
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22
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Kazankov K, Bojsen‐Møller KN, Møller HJ, Madsbad S, Grønbæk H. Macrophage activation marker sCD163 is associated with liver injury and hepatic insulin resistance in obese patients before and after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15157. [PMID: 35040267 PMCID: PMC8764469 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macrophages are associated with metabolic complications to obesity including fatty liver disease and impaired hepatic and muscle insulin sensitivity (IS). Bariatric surgery induces weight loss and improves IS. We investigated associations between the macrophage activation marker soluble (s)CD163, alanine-aminotransferase (ALT), and IS before and after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB). METHODS We analyzed sCD163 from 10 type 2 diabetes (T2D) and 10 obese patients with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) undergoing RYGB for associations with hepatic, adipose tissue, and muscle IS and ALT after 1-week, 3, and 12 months postoperatively. IS was evaluated by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp in combination with glucose tracer technique. RESULTS Preoperative sCD163 correlated with ALT (r = 0.58, p = 0.007) and tended to associate inversely with hepatic (r = -0.39, p = 0.1) and adipose tissue (r = -0.39, p = 0.09), but not muscle IS. Following RYGB, sCD163 decreased significantly in all patients. The decrease in sCD163 during the first 3 months correlated inversely with the improvement of hepatic IS (r = -0.65, p = 0.01) and tended to be associated with changes in muscle IS (r = -0.45, p = 0.09). After 3 months sCD163 remained associated with ALT (r = 0.75, p < 0.001) and inversely with hepatic IS (r = -0.39, p = 0.1), but not muscle or adipose tissue IS. One year after RYGB, sCD163 correlated with ALT (r = 0.61, p = 0.007), but not with hepatic, adipose tissue, or muscle IS. CONCLUSION Macrophage activation is associated with liver injury and hepatic IS in obese patients. Improvements in these measures correlate during the first 3 months following RYGB, supporting a link between macrophages and hepatic IS in severe obesity and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Kazankov
- Department of Hepatology and GastroenterologyAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
- Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Holger Jon Møller
- Department of Clinical BiochemistryAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
| | - Sten Madsbad
- Department of EndocrinologyCopenhagen University Hospital HvidovreHvidovreDenmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic ResearchUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Henning Grønbæk
- Department of Hepatology and GastroenterologyAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
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23
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Rashu EB, Werge MP, Hetland LE, Junker AE, Jensen MK, Gluud LL. Referral Patterns for Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030404. [PMID: 33494361 PMCID: PMC7866077 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rapidly increasing. This study evaluates the referral pattern of patients with NAFLD. A cohort study evaluating all patients with NAFLD referred to a single Gastroenterology Department from January 2017 to June 2020. Electronic patient referral letters were reviewed, and patients with NAFLD were diagnosed using standardized tests as part of a prospective cohort study. Predictors of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with significant (≥F2) fibrosis were evaluated in logistic regression analyses. In total, 323 (18.6%) of 1735 patients referred to the Gastro Unit during the study period were diagnosed with NAFLD. Patients were referred from general practitioners (62.5%) or other hospital departments (37.5%). Most referral letters included information suggesting a possible diagnosis of NAFLD (patient history, blood tests, or diagnostic imaging) or used the nonspecific general diagnosis suspected disease (Z.038). Out of 110 patients referred for a liver biopsy, 71 (22%) had NASH with significant fibrosis (F2 n = 39, F3 n = 19, F4 n = 13). Thirty-nine of these patients were referred from the primary sector. A logistic regression analysis (adjusted for age and gender) including all 323 patients showed that type 2 diabetes was the only significant independent predictor of NASH with fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Badal Rashu
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; (E.B.R.); (M.P.W.); (L.E.H.); (A.E.J.)
| | - Mikkel Parsberg Werge
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; (E.B.R.); (M.P.W.); (L.E.H.); (A.E.J.)
| | - Liv Eline Hetland
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; (E.B.R.); (M.P.W.); (L.E.H.); (A.E.J.)
| | - Anders Ellekaer Junker
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; (E.B.R.); (M.P.W.); (L.E.H.); (A.E.J.)
| | - Majken Karoline Jensen
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, 1356 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; (E.B.R.); (M.P.W.); (L.E.H.); (A.E.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-3862-1964
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24
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Galsgaard KD. The Vicious Circle of Hepatic Glucagon Resistance in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9124049. [PMID: 33333850 PMCID: PMC7765287 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A key criterion for the most common chronic liver disease—non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—is an intrahepatic fat content above 5% in individuals who are not using steatogenic agents or having significant alcohol intake. Subjects with NAFLD have increased plasma concentrations of glucagon, and emerging evidence indicates that subjects with NAFLD may show hepatic glucagon resistance. For many years, glucagon has been thought of as the counterregulatory hormone to insulin with a primary function of increasing blood glucose concentrations and protecting against hypoglycemia. However, in recent years, glucagon has re-emerged as an important regulator of other metabolic processes including lipid and amino acid/protein metabolism. This review discusses the evidence that in NAFLD, hepatic glucagon resistance may result in a dysregulated lipid and amino acid/protein metabolism, leading to excess accumulation of fat, hyperglucagonemia, and increased oxidative stress contributing to the worsening/progression of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine D. Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; ; Tel.: +45-6044-6145
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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25
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Winther-Sørensen M, Galsgaard KD, Santos A, Trammell SAJ, Sulek K, Kuhre RE, Pedersen J, Andersen DB, Hassing AS, Dall M, Treebak JT, Gillum MP, Torekov SS, Windeløv JA, Hunt JE, Kjeldsen SAS, Jepsen SL, Vasilopoulou CG, Knop FK, Ørskov C, Werge MP, Bisgaard HC, Eriksen PL, Vilstrup H, Gluud LL, Holst JJ, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Glucagon acutely regulates hepatic amino acid catabolism and the effect may be disturbed by steatosis. Mol Metab 2020; 42:101080. [PMID: 32937194 PMCID: PMC7560169 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2020.101080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glucagon is well known to regulate blood glucose but may be equally important for amino acid metabolism. Plasma levels of amino acids are regulated by glucagon-dependent mechanism(s), while amino acids stimulate glucagon secretion from alpha cells, completing the recently described liver-alpha cell axis. The mechanisms underlying the cycle and the possible impact of hepatic steatosis are unclear. METHODS We assessed amino acid clearance in vivo in mice treated with a glucagon receptor antagonist (GRA), transgenic mice with 95% reduction in alpha cells, and mice with hepatic steatosis. In addition, we evaluated urea formation in primary hepatocytes from ob/ob mice and humans, and we studied acute metabolic effects of glucagon in perfused rat livers. We also performed RNA sequencing on livers from glucagon receptor knock-out mice and mice with hepatic steatosis. Finally, we measured individual plasma amino acids and glucagon in healthy controls and in two independent cohorts of patients with biopsy-verified non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). RESULTS Amino acid clearance was reduced in mice treated with GRA and mice lacking endogenous glucagon (loss of alpha cells) concomitantly with reduced production of urea. Glucagon administration markedly changed the secretion of rat liver metabolites and within minutes increased urea formation in mice, in perfused rat liver, and in primary human hepatocytes. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that three genes responsible for amino acid catabolism (Cps1, Slc7a2, and Slc38a2) were downregulated both in mice with hepatic steatosis and in mice with deletion of the glucagon receptor. Cultured ob/ob hepatocytes produced less urea upon stimulation with mixed amino acids, and amino acid clearance was lower in mice with hepatic steatosis. Glucagon-induced ureagenesis was impaired in perfused rat livers with hepatic steatosis. Patients with NAFLD had hyperglucagonemia and increased levels of glucagonotropic amino acids, including alanine in particular. Both glucagon and alanine levels were reduced after diet-induced reduction in Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR, a marker of hepatic steatosis). CONCLUSIONS Glucagon regulates amino acid metabolism both non-transcriptionally and transcriptionally. Hepatic steatosis may impair glucagon-dependent enhancement of amino acid catabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine D Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alberto Santos
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Samuel A J Trammell
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karolina Sulek
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rune E Kuhre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Pedersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel B Andersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna S Hassing
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Dall
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas T Treebak
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Matthew P Gillum
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Signe S Torekov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Johanne A Windeløv
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jenna E Hunt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara L Jepsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Catherine G Vasilopoulou
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Munich, Germany
| | - Filip K Knop
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Cathrine Ørskov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel P Werge
- Gastrounit, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Hanne Cathrine Bisgaard
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Lykke Eriksen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Gastrounit, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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