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Abo SMC, Layton AT. Modeling sex-specific whole-body metabolic responses to feeding and fasting. Comput Biol Med 2024; 181:109024. [PMID: 39178806 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.109024] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Men generally favor carbohydrate metabolism, while women lean towards lipid metabolism, resulting in significant sex-based differences in energy oxidation across various metabolic states such as fasting and feeding. These differences are influenced by body composition and inherent metabolic fluxes, including increased lipolysis rates in women. However, understanding how sex influences organ-specific metabolism and systemic manifestations remains incomplete. To address these gaps, we developed a sex-specific, whole-body metabolic model for feeding and fasting scenarios in healthy young adults. Our model integrates organ metabolism with whole-body responses to mixed meals, particularly high-carbohydrate and high-fat meals. Our predictions suggest that differences in liver and adipose tissue nutrient storage and oxidation patterns drive systemic metabolic disparities. We propose that sex differences in fasting hepatic glucose output may result from the different handling of free fatty acids, glycerol, and glycogen. We identified a metabolic pathway, possibly more prevalent in female livers, redirecting lipids towards carbohydrate metabolism to support hepatic glucose production. This mechanism is facilitated by the TG-FFA cycle between adipose tissue and the liver. Incorporating sex-specific data into multi-scale frameworks offers insights into how sex modulates human metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie M C Abo
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Anita T Layton
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Ontario, Canada; Cheriton School of Computer Science, Department of Biology, and School of Pharmacy, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Ontario, Canada.
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2
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Zhang L, Qin Y, Huang Y, Hu Q, Wu Q, Wang X, Zhang M. Abnormal late postprandial glucagon response in type 1 diabetes is a function of differences in stimulated C-peptide concentrations. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1419329. [PMID: 39149119 PMCID: PMC11324558 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1419329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The functional changes in alpha cells in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) with different residual beta cell functions remain poorly elucidated. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between glucagon secretion and C-peptide levels and to explore the relationship between glucagon response and glucose increment in respond to a secretagogue in a steamed bread meal tolerance test (BMTT) in T1D. Methods The study enrolled 43 adult patients with T1D and 24 healthy control subjects. Patients with T1D who underwent BMTT were divided into two groups based on peak C-peptide levels: C peptide low (CPL; C-peptide < 200 pmol/L; n=14) and high (CPH; C peptide ≥ 200 pmol/L; n=29). Plasma glucose, C-peptide, glucagon levels at 0, 30, 60, 120, and 180 min were measured. The glucagon response to the BMTT was defined by areas under the curve (AUC) as early (AUC0-30), late (AUC30-180), or total (AUC0-180) glucagon. Results Compared to healthy individuals, fasting plasma glucagon was lower and postprandial plasma glucagon level was increased in patients with T1D. Glucagon levels after BMTT between the CPL and CPH group showed significant group by time interaction. Peak glucagon and glucagon at 60-180 min, total and late glucagon response were higher in CPL than CPH group, while fasting glucagon and early glucagon response adjusted for glucose were comparable between CPL and CPH group. The higher late glucagon response and late glucagon response adjusted for glucose were associated with lower peak C-peptide in T1D. The higher late glucagon response and lower peak C-peptide were associated with the higher value of ▵glucose at 180 min. Conclusion Stimulated C-peptide levels affect the paradoxical increase in postprandial glucagon secretion in patients with T1D, especially late glucagon response. The exaggerated postprandial glucagon secretion further stimulates the elevation of postprandial glucose in patients with T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyu Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Endocrinology, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yao Qin
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yiting Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qizhen Hu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qian Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mei Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Tamarit-Rodriguez J. Regulatory Role of Fatty Acid Metabolism on Glucose-Induced Changes in Insulin and Glucagon Secretion by Pancreatic Islet Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6052. [PMID: 38892240 PMCID: PMC11172437 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
A detailed study of palmitate metabolism in pancreatic islets subject to different experimental conditions, like varying concentrations of glucose, as well as fed or starved conditions, has allowed us to explore the interaction between the two main plasma nutrients and its consequences on hormone secretion. Palmitate potentiates glucose-induced insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner, in a physiological range of both palmitate (0-2 mM) and glucose (6-20 mM) concentrations; at glucose concentrations lower than 6 mM, no metabolic interaction with palmitate was apparent. Starvation (48 h) increased islet palmitate oxidation two-fold, and the effect was resistant to its inhibition by glucose (6-20 mM). Consequently, labelled palmitate and glucose incorporation into complex lipids were strongly suppressed, as well as glucose-induced insulin secretion and its potentiation by palmitate. 2-bromostearate, a palmitate oxidation inhibitor, fully recovered the synthesis of complex lipids and insulin secretion. We concluded that palmitate potentiation of the insulin response to glucose is not attributable to its catabolic mitochondrial oxidation but to its anabolism to complex lipids: islet lipid biosynthesis is dependent on the uptake of plasma fatty acids and the supply of α-glycerol phosphate from glycolysis. Islet secretion of glucagon and somatostatin showed a similar dependence on palmitate anabolism as insulin. The possible mechanisms implicated in the metabolic coupling between glucose and palmitate were commented on. Moreover, possible mechanisms responsible for islet gluco- or lipotoxicity after a long-term stimulation of insulin secretion were also discussed. Our own data on the simultaneous stimulation of insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin by glucose, as well as their modification by 2-bromostearate in perifused rat islets, give support to the conclusion that increased FFA anabolism, rather than its mitochondrial oxidation, results in a potentiation of their stimulated release. Starvation, besides suppressing glucose stimulation of insulin secretion, also blocks the inhibitory effect of glucose on glucagon secretion: this suggests that glucagon inhibition might be an indirect or direct effect of insulin, but not of glucose. In summary, there seems to exist three mechanisms of glucagon secretion stimulation: 1. glucagon stimulation through the same secretion coupling mechanism as insulin, but in a different range of glucose concentrations (0 to 5 mM). 2. Direct or indirect inhibition by secreted insulin in response to glucose (5-20 mM). 3. Stimulation by increased FFA anabolism in glucose intolerance or diabetes in the context of hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and hypo-insulinemia. These conclusions were discussed and compared with previous published data in the literature. Specially, we discussed the mechanism for inhibition of glucagon release by glucose, which was apparently contradictory with the secretion coupling mechanism of its stimulation.
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Acreman S, Ma J, Denwood G, Gao R, Tarasov A, Rorsman P, Zhang Q. The endoplasmic reticulum plays a key role in α-cell intracellular Ca 2+ dynamics and glucose-regulated glucagon secretion in mouse islets. iScience 2024; 27:109665. [PMID: 38646167 PMCID: PMC11033163 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucagon is secreted by pancreatic α-cells to counteract hypoglycaemia. How glucose regulates glucagon secretion remains unclear. Here, using mouse islets, we studied the role of transmembrane and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ on intrinsic α-cell glucagon secretion. Blocking isradipine-sensitive L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ (Cav) channels abolished α-cell electrical activity but had little impact on its cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations or low-glucose-stimulated glucagon secretion. In contrast, depleting ER Ca2+ with cyclopiazonic acid or blocking ER Ca2+-releasing ryanodine receptors abolished α-cell glucose sensitivity and low-glucose-stimulated glucagon secretion. ER Ca2+ mobilization in α-cells is regulated by intracellular ATP and likely to be coupled to Ca2+ influx through P/Q-type Cav channels. ω-Agatoxin IVA blocked α-cell ER Ca2+ release and cell exocytosis, but had no additive effect on glucagon secretion when combined with ryanodine. We conclude that glucose regulates glucagon secretion through the control of ER Ca2+ mobilization, a mechanism that can be independent of α-cell electrical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Acreman
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Metabolic Research Unit, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 430, S-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jinfang Ma
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Geoffrey Denwood
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Rui Gao
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Andrei Tarasov
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Patrik Rorsman
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Physiology, Metabolic Research Unit, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 430, S-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Quan Zhang
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Hoffman EG, D’Souza NC, Liggins RT, Riddell MC. Pharmacologic inhibition of somatostatin receptor 2 to restore glucagon counterregulation in diabetes. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1295639. [PMID: 38298268 PMCID: PMC10829877 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1295639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucose homeostasis is primarily maintained by pancreatic hormones, insulin and glucagon, with an emerging role for a third islet hormone, somatostatin, in regulating insulin and glucagon responses. Under healthy conditions, somatostatin secreted from pancreatic islet δ-cells inhibits both insulin and glucagon release through somatostatin receptor- induced cAMP-mediated downregulation and paracrine inhibition of β- and α-cells, respectively. Since glucagon is the body's most important anti-hypoglycemic hormone, and because glucagon counterregulation to hypoglycemia is lost in diabetes, the study of somatostatin biology has led to new investigational medications now in development that may help to restore glucagon counterregulation in type 1 diabetes. This review highlights the normal regulatory role of pancreatic somatostatin signaling in healthy islet function and how the inhibition of somatostatin receptor signaling in pancreatic α-cells may restore normal glucagon counterregulation in diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily G. Hoffman
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ninoschka C. D’Souza
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Michael C. Riddell
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Huang JL, Pourhosseinzadeh MS, Lee S, Krämer N, Guillen JV, Cinque NH, Aniceto P, Momen AT, Koike S, Huising MO. Paracrine signalling by pancreatic δ cells determines the glycaemic set point in mice. Nat Metab 2024; 6:61-77. [PMID: 38195859 PMCID: PMC10919447 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00944-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
While pancreatic β and α cells are considered the main drivers of blood glucose homeostasis through insulin and glucagon secretion, the contribution of δ cells and somatostatin (SST) secretion to glucose homeostasis remains unresolved. Here we provide a quantitative assessment of the physiological contribution of δ cells to the glycaemic set point in mice. Employing three orthogonal mouse models to remove SST signalling within the pancreas or transplanted islets, we demonstrate that ablating δ cells or SST leads to a sustained decrease in the glycaemic set point. This reduction coincides with a decreased glucose threshold for insulin response from β cells, leading to increased insulin secretion to the same glucose challenge. Our data demonstrate that β cells are sufficient to maintain stable glycaemia and reveal that the physiological role of δ cells is to provide tonic feedback inhibition that reduces the β cell glucose threshold and consequently lowers the glycaemic set point in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Huang
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Mohammad S Pourhosseinzadeh
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sharon Lee
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Niels Krämer
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Animal Ecology and Physiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jaresley V Guillen
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Naomi H Cinque
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Paola Aniceto
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Ariana T Momen
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Shinichiro Koike
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Mark O Huising
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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Knuth ER, Foster HR, Jin E, Merrins MJ. Leucine suppresses glucagon secretion from pancreatic islets by directly modulating α-cell cAMP. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.31.551113. [PMID: 37577685 PMCID: PMC10418066 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.31.551113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective Pancreatic islets are nutrient sensors that regulate organismal blood glucose homeostasis. Glucagon release from the pancreatic α-cell is important under fasted, fed, and hypoglycemic conditions, yet metabolic regulation of α-cells remains poorly understood. Here, we identified a previously unexplored role for physiological levels of leucine, which is classically regarded as a β-cell fuel, in the intrinsic regulation of α-cell glucagon release. Methods GcgCreERT:CAMPER and GcgCreERT:GCaMP6s mice were generated to perform dynamic, high-throughput functional measurements of α-cell cAMP and Ca2+ within the intact islet. Islet perifusion assays were used for simultaneous, time-resolved measurements of glucagon and insulin release from mouse and human islets. The effects of leucine were compared with glucose and the mitochondrial fuels 2-aminobicyclo(2,2,1)heptane-2-carboxylic acid (BCH, non-metabolized leucine analog that activates glutamate dehydrogenase), α-ketoisocaproate (KIC, leucine metabolite), and methyl-succinate (complex II fuel). CYN154806 (Sstr2 antagonist), diazoxide (KATP activator, which prevents Ca2+-dependent exocytosis from α, β, and δ-cells), and dispersed α-cells were used to inhibit islet paracrine signaling and identify α-cell intrinsic effects. Results Mimicking the effect of glucose, leucine strongly suppressed amino acid-stimulated glucagon secretion. Mechanistically, leucine dose-dependently reduced α-cell cAMP at physiological concentrations, with an IC50 of 57, 440, and 1162 μM at 2, 6, and 10 mM glucose, without affecting α-cell Ca2+. Leucine also reduced α-cell cAMP in islets treated with Sstr2 antagonist or diazoxide, as well as dispersed α-cells, indicating an α-cell intrinsic effect. The effect of leucine was matched by KIC and the glutamate dehydrogenase activator BCH, but not methyl-succinate, indicating a dependence on mitochondrial anaplerosis. Glucose, which stimulates anaplerosis via pyruvate carboxylase, had the same suppressive effect on α-cell cAMP but with lower potency. Similarly to mouse islets, leucine suppressed glucagon secretion from human islets under hypoglycemic conditions. Conclusions These findings highlight an important role for physiological levels of leucine in the metabolic regulation of α-cell cAMP and glucagon secretion. Leucine functions primarily through an α-cell intrinsic effect that is dependent on glutamate dehydrogenase, in addition to the well-established α-cell regulation by β/δ-cell paracrine signaling. Our results suggest that mitochondrial anaplerosis-cataplerosis facilitates the glucagonostatic effect of both leucine and glucose, which cooperatively suppress α-cell tone by reducing cAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R. Knuth
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Hannah R. Foster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Erli Jin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Matthew J. Merrins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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Brown A, Tzanakakis ES. Mathematical modeling clarifies the paracrine roles of insulin and glucagon on the glucose-stimulated hormonal secretion of pancreatic alpha- and beta-cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1212749. [PMID: 37645413 PMCID: PMC10461634 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1212749] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Blood sugar homeostasis relies largely on the action of pancreatic islet hormones, particularly insulin and glucagon. In a prototypical fashion, glucagon is released upon hypoglycemia to elevate glucose by acting on the liver while elevated glucose induces the secretion of insulin which leads to sugar uptake by peripheral tissues. This simplified view of glucagon and insulin does not consider the paracrine roles of the two hormones modulating the response to glucose of α- and β-cells. In particular, glucose-stimulated glucagon secretion by isolated α-cells exhibits a Hill-function pattern, while experiments with intact pancreatic islets suggest a 'U'-shaped response. Methods To this end, a framework was developed based on first principles and coupled to experimental studies capturing the glucose-induced response of pancreatic α- and β-cells influenced by the two hormones. The model predicts both the transient and steady-state profiles of secreted insulin and glucagon, including the typical biphasic response of normal β-cells to hyperglycemia. Results and discussion The results underscore insulin activity as a differentiating factor of the glucagon secretion from whole islets vs. isolated α-cells, and highlight the importance of experimental conditions in interpreting the behavior of islet cells in vitro. The model also reproduces the hyperglucagonemia, which is experienced by diabetes patients, and it is linked to a failure of insulin to inhibit α-cell activity. The framework described here is amenable to the inclusion of additional islet cell types and extrapancreatic tissue cells simulating multi-organ systems. The study expands our understanding of the interplay of insulin and glucagon for pancreas function in normal and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aedan Brown
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
| | - Emmanuel S. Tzanakakis
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
- Genetics, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
- Pharmacology and Drug Development, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
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Hædersdal S, Andersen A, Knop FK, Vilsbøll T. Revisiting the role of glucagon in health, diabetes mellitus and other metabolic diseases. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023; 19:321-335. [PMID: 36932176 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00817-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Insulin and glucagon exert opposing effects on glucose metabolism and, consequently, pancreatic islet β-cells and α-cells are considered functional antagonists. The intra-islet hypothesis has previously dominated the understanding of glucagon secretion, stating that insulin acts to inhibit the release of glucagon. By contrast, glucagon is a potent stimulator of insulin secretion and has been used to test β-cell function. Over the past decade, α-cells have received increasing attention due to their ability to stimulate insulin secretion from neighbouring β-cells, and α-cell-β-cell crosstalk has proven central for glucose homeostasis in vivo. Glucagon is not only the counter-regulatory hormone to insulin in glucose metabolism but also glucagon secretion is more susceptible to changes in the plasma concentration of certain amino acids than to changes in plasma concentrations of glucose. Thus, the actions of glucagon also include a central role in amino acid turnover and hepatic fat oxidation. This Review provides insights into glucagon secretion, with a focus on the local paracrine actions on glucagon and the importance of α-cell-β-cell crosstalk. We focus on dysregulated glucagon secretion in obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Lastly, the future potential of targeting hyperglucagonaemia and applying dual and triple receptor agonists with glucagon receptor-activating properties in combination with incretin hormone receptor agonism is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Hædersdal
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark.
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark.
| | - Andreas Andersen
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tina Vilsbøll
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark.
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Monitoring hormone and small molecule secretion dynamics from islets-on-chip. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:533-544. [PMID: 36459167 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04460-2] [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: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Tissue functions such as hormone secretion involve the interplay of multiple chemical signals and metabolic processes over time. Measuring the different components involved is useful in unraveling the interactions, but often requires use of multiple analytical techniques. The challenge of measuring the necessary components with temporal resolution is greater when tissue samples are limited. Here, an accessible microfluidic platform compatible with multiple measurement techniques to monitor cell secretions has been developed. The platform is applied to islets of Langerhans, micro-organs involved in glucose homeostasis and diabetes. The device houses 1 to 8 islets and the perfusion fluid can be controlled to change conditions, e.g., glucose concentration, in seconds. Samples are collected in fractions and split for offline analysis. The device is paired with a scaled-down immunoassay, AlphaLISA, for hormone quantification and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for small molecule quantification to study secretion dynamics. The combined system allows the first simultaneous measurement of insulin, glucagon, biogenic amines, and amino acids from islet secretions. The combined measurements revealed correlation in secretion events and differences in timing of release between hormones and biogenic amines and amino acids. These efforts decreased the number of islets required compared to standard approaches, thus decreasing necessary animal use, reagent use, and cost, while increasing information content achievable from one sample. The microfluidic device is a suitable platform for in-depth characterization of secretion from small tissue samples.
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Viloria K, Nasteska D, Ast J, Hasib A, Cuozzo F, Heising S, Briant LJB, Hewison M, Hodson DJ. GC-Globulin/Vitamin D-Binding Protein Is Required for Pancreatic α-Cell Adaptation to Metabolic Stress. Diabetes 2023; 72:275-289. [PMID: 36445949 DOI: 10.2337/db22-0326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
GC-globulin (GC), or vitamin D-binding protein, is a multifunctional protein involved in the transport of circulating vitamin 25(OH)D and fatty acids, as well as actin scavenging. In the pancreatic islets, the gene encoding GC, GC/Gc, is highly localized to glucagon-secreting α-cells. Despite this, the role of GC in α-cell function is poorly understood. We previously showed that GC is essential for α-cell morphology, electrical activity, and glucagon secretion. We now show that loss of GC exacerbates α-cell failure during metabolic stress. High-fat diet-fed GC-/- mice have basal hyperglucagonemia, which is associated with decreased α-cell size, impaired glucagon secretion and Ca2+ fluxes, and changes in glucose-dependent F-actin remodelling. Impairments in glucagon secretion can be rescued using exogenous GC to replenish α-cell GC levels, increase glucagon granule area, and restore the F-actin cytoskeleton. Lastly, GC levels decrease in α-cells of donors with type 2 diabetes, which is associated with changes in α-cell mass, morphology, and glucagon expression. Together, these data demonstrate an important role for GC in α-cell adaptation to metabolic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Viloria
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Daniela Nasteska
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Julia Ast
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Annie Hasib
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Federica Cuozzo
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Silke Heising
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
| | - Linford J B Briant
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (OCDEM), National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Churchill Hospital, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, U.K
| | - Martin Hewison
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
| | - David J Hodson
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), and Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, U.K
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, U.K
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (OCDEM), National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Churchill Hospital, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, U.K
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12
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Maruszczak K, Rasmussen C, Ceutz FR, Ørgaard A, Elmelund E, Richter MM, Holst JJ, Winther-Sørensen M, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Arginine-induced glucagon secretion and glucagon-induced enhancement of amino acid catabolism are not influenced by ambient glucose levels in mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2022; 323:E207-E214. [PMID: 35830690 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00122.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Amino acids stimulate the secretion of glucagon, and glucagon receptor signaling regulates amino acid catabolism via ureagenesis, together constituting the liver-α cell axis. Impairment of the liver-α cell axis is observed in metabolic diseases such as diabetes. It is, however, unknown whether glucose affects the liver-α cell axis. We investigated the role of glucose on the liver-α cell axis in vivo and ex vivo. The isolated perfused mouse pancreas was used to evaluate the direct effect of low (3.5 mmol/L) and high (15 mmol/L) glucose levels on amino acid (10 mmol/L arginine)-induced glucagon secretion. High glucose levels alone lowered glucagon secretion, but the amino acid-induced glucagon responses were similar in high and low glucose conditions (P = 0.38). The direct effect of glucose on glucagon and amino acid-induced ureagenesis was assessed using isolated perfused mouse livers stimulated with a mixture of amino acids (VaminR, 10 mmol/L) and glucagon (10 nmol/L) during high and low glucose conditions. Urea production increased robustly but was independent of glucose levels (P = 0.95). To investigate the whole body effects of glucose on the liver-α cell axis, four groups of mice received intraperitoneal injections of glucose-Vamin (2 g/kg, + 3.5 µmol/g, respectively, G/V), saline-Vamin (S/V), glucose-saline (G/S), or saline-saline (S/S). Blood glucose did not differ significantly between G/S and G/V groups. Levels of glucagon and amino acids were similar in the G/V and S/V groups (P = 0.28). Amino acids may overrule the inhibitory effect of glucose on glucagon secretion and the liver-α cell axis may operate independently of glucose in mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Glucagon is an essential regulator of our metabolism. Recent evidence suggests that the physiological actions of glucagon reside in amino acid catabolism in the so-called liver-α cell axis, in which amino acids stimulate glucagon secretion and glucagon enhances hepatic amino acid catabolism. Here, it is demonstrated that this feedback system is independent of glycemia possibly explaining why hyperglycemia in diabetes may not suppress α cell secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Maruszczak
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christine Rasmussen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik R Ceutz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Ørgaard
- 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
| | - Emilie Elmelund
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael M Richter
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, 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
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Oh JH, Han YE, Bao YR, Kang CW, Koo J, Ku CR, Cho YH, Lee EJ. Olfactory marker protein regulation of glucagon secretion in hyperglycemia. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:1502-1510. [PMID: 36104518 PMCID: PMC9534918 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00843-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The olfactory marker protein (OMP), which is also expressed in nonolfactory tissues, plays a role in regulating the kinetics and termination of olfactory transduction. Thus, we hypothesized that OMP may play a similar role in modulating the secretion of hormones involved in Ca2+ and cAMP signaling, such as glucagon. In the present study, we confirmed nonolfactory α-cell-specific OMP expression in human and mouse pancreatic islets as well as in the murine α-cell line αTC1.9. Glucagon and OMP expression increased under hyperglycemic conditions. Omp knockdown in hyperglycemic αTC1.9 cells using small-interfering RNA (siRNA) reduced the responses to glucagon release and the related signaling pathways compared with the si-negative control. The OMPlox/lox;GCGcre/w mice expressed basal glucagon levels similar to those in the wild-type OMPlox/lox mice but showed resistance against streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia. The ectopic olfactory signaling events in pancreatic α-cells suggest that olfactory receptor pathways could be therapeutic targets for reducing excessive glucagon levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Hun Oh
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ye Eon Han
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ya Ru Bao
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chan Woo Kang
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - JaeHyung Koo
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, South Korea
| | - Cheol Ryong Ku
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoon Hee Cho
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Eun Jig Lee
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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14
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Doliba NM, Rozo AV, Roman J, Qin W, Traum D, Gao L, Liu J, Manduchi E, Liu C, Golson ML, Vahedi G, Naji A, Matschinsky FM, Atkinson MA, Powers AC, Brissova M, Kaestner KH, Stoffers DA. α Cell dysfunction in islets from nondiabetic, glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibody-positive individuals. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:156243. [PMID: 35642629 PMCID: PMC9151702 DOI: 10.1172/jci156243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDMultiple islet autoantibodies (AAbs) predict the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and hyperglycemia within 10 years. By contrast, T1D develops in only approximately 15% of individuals who are positive for single AAbs (generally against glutamic acid decarboxylase [GADA]); hence, the single GADA+ state may represent an early stage of T1D.METHODSHere, we functionally, histologically, and molecularly phenotyped human islets from nondiabetic GADA+ and T1D donors.RESULTSSimilar to the few remaining β cells in the T1D islets, GADA+ donor islets demonstrated a preserved insulin secretory response. By contrast, α cell glucagon secretion was dysregulated in both GADA+ and T1D islets, with impaired glucose suppression of glucagon secretion. Single-cell RNA-Seq of GADA+ α cells revealed distinct abnormalities in glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation pathways and a marked downregulation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor β (PKIB), providing a molecular basis for the loss of glucose suppression and the increased effect of 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) observed in GADA+ donor islets.CONCLUSIONWe found that α cell dysfunction was present during the early stages of islet autoimmunity at a time when β cell mass was still normal, raising important questions about the role of early α cell dysfunction in the progression of T1D.FUNDINGThis work was supported by grants from the NIH (3UC4DK112217-01S1, U01DK123594-02, UC4DK112217, UC4DK112232, U01DK123716, and P30 DK019525) and the Vanderbilt Diabetes Research and Training Center (DK20593).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai M. Doliba
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics,,Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism
| | - Andrea V. Rozo
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism,,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine
| | | | - Wei Qin
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine
| | | | | | | | | | - Chengyang Liu
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism,,Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maria L. Golson
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism,,Department of Genetics, and
| | - Golnaz Vahedi
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism,,Department of Genetics, and
| | - Ali Naji
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism,,Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Franz M. Matschinsky
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics,,Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism
| | - Mark A. Atkinson
- Departments of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida Diabetes Institute, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida Diabetes Institute, College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Alvin C. Powers
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Marcela Brissova
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Klaus H. Kaestner
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism,,Department of Genetics, and
| | - Doris A. Stoffers
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism,,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine
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15
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Regeneration of insulin-producing cells from iPS cells using functionalized scaffolds and solid lipid nanoparticles. J Taiwan Inst Chem Eng 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtice.2022.104387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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16
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Zmazek J, Grubelnik V, Markovič R, Marhl M. Modeling the Amino Acid Effect on Glucagon Secretion from Pancreatic Alpha Cells. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12040348. [PMID: 35448534 PMCID: PMC9028923 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12040348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a burdensome problem in modern society, and intensive research is focused on better understanding the underlying cellular mechanisms of hormone secretion for blood glucose regulation. T2DM is a bi-hormonal disease, and in addition to 100 years of increasing knowledge about the importance of insulin, the second hormone glucagon, secreted by pancreatic alpha cells, is becoming increasingly important. We have developed a mathematical model for glucagon secretion that incorporates all major metabolic processes of glucose, fatty acids, and glutamine as the most abundant postprandial amino acid in blood. In addition, we consider cAMP signaling in alpha cells. The model predictions quantitatively estimate the relative importance of specific metabolic and signaling pathways and particularly emphasize the important role of glutamine in promoting glucagon secretion, which is in good agreement with known experimental data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Zmazek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (J.Z.); (R.M.)
| | - Vladimir Grubelnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Rene Markovič
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (J.Z.); (R.M.)
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Marko Marhl
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (J.Z.); (R.M.)
- Faculty of Education, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Correspondence:
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17
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Singh B, Khattab F, Gilon P. Glucose inhibits glucagon secretion by decreasing [Ca2+]c and by reducing the efficacy of Ca2+ on exocytosis via somatostatin-dependent and independent mechanisms. Mol Metab 2022; 61:101495. [PMID: 35421610 PMCID: PMC9065434 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2022.101495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Methods Results Conclusions Glucose modulates [Ca2+]c in α-cells within islets but not in dispersed α-cells. In α-cells within islets, it decreases [Ca2+]c independently of their KATP channels. It decreases α-cell [Ca2+]c partly via somatostatin. All glucose-induced [Ca2+]c changes trigger parallel changes in glucagon release. Glucose also decreases the efficacy of Ca2+ on exocytosis (attenuating pathway).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Singh
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle d'Endocrinologie, Diabète et Nutrition, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Firas Khattab
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle d'Endocrinologie, Diabète et Nutrition, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Patrick Gilon
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle d'Endocrinologie, Diabète et Nutrition, Brussels, Belgium.
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18
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Andersen DB, Holst JJ. Peptides in the regulation of glucagon secretion. Peptides 2022; 148:170683. [PMID: 34748791 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucose homeostasis is maintained by the glucoregulatory hormones, glucagon, insulin and somatostatin, secreted from the islets of Langerhans. Glucagon is the body's most important anti-hypoglycemic hormone, mobilizing glucose from glycogen stores in the liver in response to fasting, thus maintaining plasma glucose levels within healthy limits. Glucagon secretion is regulated by both circulating nutrients, hormones and neuronal inputs. Hormones that may regulate glucagon secretion include locally produced insulin and somatostatin, but also urocortin-3, amylin and pancreatic polypeptide, and from outside the pancreas glucagon-like peptide-1 and 2, peptide tyrosine tyrosine and oxyntomodulin, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, neurotensin and ghrelin, as well as the hypothalamic hormones arginine-vasopressin and oxytocin, and calcitonin from the thyroid. Each of these hormones have distinct effects, ranging from regulating blood glucose, to regulating appetite, stomach emptying rate and intestinal motility, which makes them interesting targets for treating metabolic diseases. Awareness regarding the potential effects of the hormones on glucagon secretion is important since secretory abnormalities could manifest as hyperglycemia or even lethal hypoglycemia. Here, we review the effects of each individual hormone on glucagon secretion, their interplay, and how treatments aimed at modulating the plasma levels of these hormones may also influence glucagon secretion and glycemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Andersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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19
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Göbl C, Morettini M, Salvatori B, Alsalim W, Kahleova H, Ahrén B, Tura A. Temporal Patterns of Glucagon and Its Relationships with Glucose and Insulin following Ingestion of Different Classes of Macronutrients. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14020376. [PMID: 35057557 PMCID: PMC8780023 DOI: 10.3390/nu14020376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: glucagon secretion and inhibition should be mainly determined by glucose and insulin levels, but the relative relevance of each factor is not clarified, especially following ingestion of different macronutrients. We aimed to investigate the associations between plasma glucagon, glucose, and insulin after ingestion of single macronutrients or mixed-meal. Methods: thirty-six participants underwent four metabolic tests, based on administration of glucose, protein, fat, or mixed-meal. Glucagon, glucose, insulin, and C-peptide were measured at fasting and for 300 min following food ingestion. We analyzed relationships between time samples of glucagon, glucose, and insulin in each individual, as well as between suprabasal area-under-the-curve of the same variables (ΔAUCGLUCA, ΔAUCGLU, ΔAUCINS) over the whole participants’ cohort. Results: in individuals, time samples of glucagon and glucose were related in only 26 cases (18 direct, 8 inverse relationships), whereas relationship with insulin was more frequent (60 and 5, p < 0.0001). The frequency of significant relationships was different among tests, especially for direct relationships (p ≤ 0.006). In the whole cohort, ΔAUCGLUCA was weakly related to ΔAUCGLU (p ≤ 0.02), but not to ΔAUCINS, though basal insulin secretion emerged as possible covariate. Conclusions: glucose and insulin are not general and exclusive determinants of glucagon secretion/inhibition after mixed-meal or macronutrients ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Göbl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Micaela Morettini
- Department of Information Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy;
| | | | - Wathik Alsalim
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; (W.A.); (B.A.)
| | - Hana Kahleova
- Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Washington, DC 20016, USA;
| | - Bo Ahrén
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; (W.A.); (B.A.)
| | - Andrea Tura
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, 35127 Padova, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-049-829-5786
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20
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Miranda C, Begum M, Vergari E, Briant LJB. Gap junction coupling and islet delta-cell function in health and disease. Peptides 2022; 147:170704. [PMID: 34826505 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The pancreatic islets contain beta-cells and alpha-cells, which are responsible for secreting two principal gluco-regulatory hormones; insulin and glucagon, respectively. However, they also contain delta-cells, a relatively sparse cell type that secretes somatostatin (SST). These cells have a complex morphology allowing them to establish an extensive communication network throughout the islet, despite their scarcity. Delta-cells are electrically excitable cells, and SST secretion is released in a glucose- and KATP-dependent manner. SST hyperpolarises the alpha-cell membrane and suppresses exocytosis. In this way, islet SST potently inhibits glucagon release. Recent studies investigating the activity of delta-cells have revealed they are electrically coupled to beta-cells via gap junctions, suggesting the delta-cell is more than just a paracrine inhibitor. In this Review, we summarize delta-cell morphology, function, and the role of SST signalling for regulating islet hormonal output. A distinguishing feature of this Review is that we attempt to use the discovery of this gap junction pathway, together with what is already known about delta-cells, to reframe the role of these cells in both health and disease. In particular, we argue that the discovery of gap junction communication between delta-cells and beta-cells provides new insights into the contribution of delta-cells to the islet hormonal defects observed in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This reappraisal of the delta-cell is important as it may offer novel insights into how the physiology of this cell can be utilised to restore islet function in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Miranda
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Metabolic Research Unit, University of Göteborg, 405 30, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Manisha Begum
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Metabolic Research Unit, University of Göteborg, 405 30, Göteborg, Sweden; University of Skӧvde, Department of Infection Biology, Högskolevägen 1, 541 28, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Elisa Vergari
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX4 7LE, Oxford, UK
| | - Linford J B Briant
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX4 7LE, Oxford, UK; Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford, OX1 3QD, Oxford, UK.
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21
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Mourad NI, Xhema D, Gianello P. In vitro assessment of pancreatic hormone secretion from isolated porcine islets. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:935060. [PMID: 36034433 PMCID: PMC9402940 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.935060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential use of porcine islets for transplantation in humans has triggered interest in understanding porcine islet physiology. However, the number of studies dedicated to this topic has remained limited, as most islet physiologists prefer to use the less time-consuming rodent model or the more clinically relevant human islet. An often-overlooked aspect of pig islet physiology is its alpha cell activity and regulation of its glucagon secretion. In vitro islet perifusion is a reliable method to study the dynamics of hormone secretion in response to different stimuli. We thus used this method to quantify and study glucagon secretion from pig islets. Pancreatic islets were isolated from 20 neonatal (14 to 21-day old) and 5 adult (>2 years) pigs and cultured in appropriate media. Islet perifusion experiments were performed 8 to 10 days post-isolation for neonatal islets and 1 to 2 days post-isolation for adult islets. Insulin and glucagon were quantified in perifusion effluent fractions as well as in islet extracts by RIA. Increasing glucose concentration from 1 mM to 15 mM markedly inhibited glucagon secretion independently of animal age. Interestingly, the effect of high glucose was more drastic on glucagon secretion compared to its effect on insulin secretion. In vivo, glucose injection during IVGTT initiated a quick (2-10 minutes) 3-fold decrease of plasmatic glucagon whereas the increase of plasmatic insulin took 20 minutes to become significant. These results suggest that regulation of glucagon secretion significantly contributes to glucose homeostasis in pigs and might compensate for the mild changes in insulin secretion in response to changes in glucose concentration.
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22
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Acreman S, Zhang Q. Regulation of α-cell glucagon secretion: The role of second messengers. Chronic Dis Transl Med 2021; 8:7-18. [PMID: 35620162 PMCID: PMC9128566 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdtm.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucagon is a potent glucose‐elevating hormone that is secreted by pancreatic α‐cells. While well‐controlled glucagon secretion plays an important role in maintaining systemic glucose homeostasis and preventing hypoglycaemia, it is increasingly apparent that defects in the regulation of glucagon secretion contribute to impaired counter‐regulation and hyperglycaemia in diabetes. It has therefore been proposed that pharmacological interventions targeting glucagon secretion/signalling can have great potential in improving glycaemic control of patients with diabetes. However, despite decades of research, a consensus on the precise mechanisms of glucose regulation of glucagon secretion is yet to be reached. Second messengers are a group of small intracellular molecules that relay extracellular signals to the intracellular signalling cascade, modulating cellular functions. There is a growing body of evidence that second messengers, such as cAMP and Ca2+, play critical roles in α‐cell glucose‐sensing and glucagon secretion. In this review, we discuss the impact of second messengers on α‐cell electrical activity, intracellular Ca2+ dynamics and cell exocytosis. We highlight the possibility that the interaction between different second messengers may play a key role in the glucose‐regulation of glucagon secretion.
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Pancreatic β Cells Inhibit Glucagon Secretion from α Cells: An In Vitro Demonstration of α-β Cell Interaction. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13072281. [PMID: 34209449 PMCID: PMC8308288 DOI: 10.3390/nu13072281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between endocrine α and β cells are critical to their secretory function in vivo. The interactions are highly regulated, although yet to be fully understood. In this study, we aim to assess the impact of α and β cell co-culture on hormone secretion. Mouse clonal cell lines α-TC6-1 (α cell line) and MIN-6 (β cell line) were cultured independently or in combination in a medium containing 5.5, 11.1, or 25 mM glucose, respectively. After 72 h, hormone release was measured using insulin and glucagon secretion assays, the cell distribution was visualized by inverted microscopy and an immunocytochemistry assay, and changes in gene expressions were assessed using the RT-PCR technique. The co-culture of the two cell lines caused a decrease in glucagon secretion from α-TC1-6 cells, while no effect on insulin secretion from MIN-6 cells was revealed. Both types of cells were randomly scattered throughout the culture flask, unlike in mice islets in vivo where β cells cluster in the core and α cells are localized at the periphery. During the α-β cell co-culture, the gene expression of glucagon (Gcg) decreased significantly. We conclude that islet β cells suppress glucagon secretion from α cells, apparently via direct cell-to-cell contact, of which the molecular mechanism needs further verification.
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Ng XW, Chung YH, Piston DW. Intercellular Communication in the Islet of Langerhans in Health and Disease. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:2191-2225. [PMID: 34190340 PMCID: PMC8985231 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c200026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Blood glucose homeostasis requires proper function of pancreatic islets, which secrete insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin from the β-, α-, and δ-cells, respectively. Each islet cell type is equipped with intrinsic mechanisms for glucose sensing and secretory actions, but these intrinsic mechanisms alone cannot explain the observed secretory profiles from intact islets. Regulation of secretion involves interconnected mechanisms among and between islet cell types. Islet cells lose their normal functional signatures and secretory behaviors upon dispersal as compared to intact islets and in vivo. In dispersed islet cells, the glucose response of insulin secretion is attenuated from that seen from whole islets, coordinated oscillations in membrane potential and intracellular Ca2+ activity, as well as the two-phase insulin secretion profile, are missing, and glucagon secretion displays higher basal secretion profile and a reverse glucose-dependent response from that of intact islets. These observations highlight the critical roles of intercellular communication within the pancreatic islet, and how these communication pathways are crucial for proper hormonal and nonhormonal secretion and glucose homeostasis. Further, misregulated secretions of islet secretory products that arise from defective intercellular islet communication are implicated in diabetes. Intercellular communication within the islet environment comprises multiple mechanisms, including electrical synapses from gap junctional coupling, paracrine interactions among neighboring cells, and direct cell-to-cell contacts in the form of juxtacrine signaling. In this article, we describe the various mechanisms that contribute to proper islet function for each islet cell type and how intercellular islet communications are coordinated among the same and different islet cell types. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:2191-2225, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue W Ng
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yong H Chung
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - David W Piston
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
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Singh B, Khattab F, Chae H, Desmet L, Herrera PL, Gilon P. K ATP channel blockers control glucagon secretion by distinct mechanisms: A direct stimulation of α-cells involving a [Ca 2+] c rise and an indirect inhibition mediated by somatostatin. Mol Metab 2021; 53:101268. [PMID: 34118477 PMCID: PMC8274344 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Glucagon is secreted by pancreatic α-cells in response to hypoglycemia and its hyperglycemic effect helps to restore normal blood glucose. Insulin and somatostatin (SST) secretions from β- and δ-cells, respectively, are stimulated by glucose by mechanisms involving an inhibition of their ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels, leading to an increase in [Ca2+]c that triggers exocytosis. Drugs that close KATP channels, such as sulfonylureas, are used to stimulate insulin release in type 2 diabetic patients. α-cells also express KATP channels. However, the mechanisms by which sulfonylureas control glucagon secretion are still largely debated and were addressed in the present study. In particular, we studied the effects of KATP channel blockers on α-cell [Ca2+]c and glucagon secretion in the presence of a low (1 mM) or a high (15 mM) glucose concentration and evaluated the role of SST in these effects. Methods Using a transgenic mouse model expressing the Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent protein, GCaMP6f, specifically in α-cells, we measured [Ca2+]c in α-cells either dispersed or within whole islets (by confocal microscopy). By measuring [Ca2+]c in α-cells within islets and glucagon secretion using the same perifusion protocols, we tested whether glucagon secretion correlated with changes in [Ca2+]c in response to sulfonylureas. We studied the role of SST in the effects of sulfonylureas using multiple approaches including genetic ablation of SST, or application of SST-14 and SST receptor antagonists. Results Application of the sulfonylureas, tolbutamide, or gliclazide, to a medium containing 1 mM or 15 mM glucose increased [Ca2+]c in α-cells by a direct effect as in β-cells. At low glucose, sulfonylureas inhibited glucagon secretion of islets despite the rise in α-cell [Ca2+]c that they triggered. This glucagonostatic effect was indirect and attributed to SST because, in the islets of SST-knockout mice, sulfonylureas induced a stimulation of glucagon secretion which correlated with an increase in α-cell [Ca2+]c. Experiments with exogenous SST-14 and SST receptor antagonists indicated that the glucagonostatic effect of sulfonylureas mainly resulted from an inhibition of the efficacy of cytosolic Ca2+ on exocytosis. Although SST-14 was also able to inhibit glucagon secretion by decreasing α-cell [Ca2+]c, no decrease in [Ca2+]c occurred during sulfonylurea application because it was largely counterbalanced by the direct stimulatory effect of these drugs on α-cell [Ca2+]c. At high glucose, i.e., in conditions where glucagon release was already low, sulfonylureas stimulated glucagon secretion because their direct stimulatory effect on α-cells exceeded the indirect effect by SST. Our results also indicated that, unexpectedly, SST-14 poorly decreased the efficacy of Ca2+ on exocytosis in β-cells. Conclusions Sulfonylureas exert two opposite actions on α-cells: a direct stimulation as in β-cells and an indirect inhibition by SST. This suggests that any alteration of SST paracrine influence, as described in diabetes, will modify the effect of sulfonylureas on glucagon release. In addition, we suggest that δ-cells inhibit α-cells more efficiently than β-cells. KATP channel blockers control glucagon secretion by two mechanisms. The first one is the direct stimulation of α-cell by a [Ca2+]c rise, as in β-cells. The second one is an indirect inhibition mediated by δ-cells releasing somatostatin. Somatostatin mainly reduces the efficacy of Ca2+ on exocytosis in α-cells. Somatostatin more potently inhibits glucagon than insulin secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Singh
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle d'Endocrinologie, Diabète et Nutrition, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Firas Khattab
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle d'Endocrinologie, Diabète et Nutrition, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Heeyoung Chae
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle d'Endocrinologie, Diabète et Nutrition, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lieven Desmet
- Université Catholique de Louvain, SMCS, Louvain Institute of Data Analysis and Modeling in economics and statistics, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Pedro L Herrera
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Gilon
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle d'Endocrinologie, Diabète et Nutrition, Brussels, Belgium.
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Role of cAMP in Double Switch of Glucagon Secretion. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040896. [PMID: 33919776 PMCID: PMC8070687 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucose metabolism plays a crucial role in modulating glucagon secretion in pancreatic alpha cells. However, the downstream effects of glucose metabolism and the activated signaling pathways influencing glucagon granule exocytosis are still obscure. We developed a computational alpha cell model, implementing metabolic pathways of glucose and free fatty acids (FFA) catabolism and an intrinsically activated cAMP signaling pathway. According to the model predictions, increased catabolic activity is able to suppress the cAMP signaling pathway, reducing exocytosis in a Ca2+-dependent and Ca2+ independent manner. The effect is synergistic to the pathway involving ATP-dependent closure of KATP channels and consequent reduction of Ca2+. We analyze the contribution of each pathway to glucagon secretion and show that both play decisive roles, providing a kind of "secure double switch". The cAMP-driven signaling switch plays a dominant role, while the ATP-driven metabolic switch is less favored. The ratio is approximately 60:40, according to the most recent experimental evidence.
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Zeigerer A, Sekar R, Kleinert M, Nason S, Habegger KM, Müller TD. Glucagon's Metabolic Action in Health and Disease. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1759-1783. [PMID: 33792899 PMCID: PMC8513137 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c200013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Discovered almost simultaneously with insulin, glucagon is a pleiotropic hormone with metabolic action that goes far beyond its classical role to increase blood glucose. Albeit best known for its ability to directly act on the liver to increase de novo glucose production and to inhibit glycogen breakdown, glucagon lowers body weight by decreasing food intake and by increasing metabolic rate. Glucagon further promotes lipolysis and lipid oxidation and has positive chronotropic and inotropic effects in the heart. Interestingly, recent decades have witnessed a remarkable renaissance of glucagon's biology with the acknowledgment that glucagon has pharmacological value beyond its classical use as rescue medication to treat severe hypoglycemia. In this article, we summarize the multifaceted nature of glucagon with a special focus on its hepatic action and discuss the pharmacological potential of either agonizing or antagonizing the glucagon receptor for health and disease. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1759-1783, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Zeigerer
- Institute for Diabetes and Cancer, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Revathi Sekar
- Institute for Diabetes and Cancer, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Kleinert
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Shelly Nason
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine - Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Kirk M. Habegger
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine - Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Timo D. Müller
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Pharmacology, Experimental Therapy and Toxicology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenomics, Eberhard Karls University Hospitals and Clinics, Tübingen, Germany
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Carré A, Mallone R. Making Insulin and Staying Out of Autoimmune Trouble: The Beta-Cell Conundrum. Front Immunol 2021; 12:639682. [PMID: 33854508 PMCID: PMC8039383 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.639682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) results from the intricate crosstalk of various immune cell types. CD8+ T cells dominate the pro-inflammatory milieu of islet infiltration (insulitis), and are considered as key effectors of beta-cell destruction, through the recognition of MHC Class I-peptide complexes. The pathways generating MHC Class I-restricted antigens in beta cells are poorly documented. Given their specialized insulin secretory function, the associated granule processing and degradation pathways, basal endoplasmic reticulum stress and susceptibility to additional stressors, alternative antigen processing and presentation (APP) pathways are likely to play a significant role in the generation of the beta-cell immunopeptidome. As direct evidence is missing, we here intersect the specificities of beta-cell function and the literature about APP in other cellular models to generate some hypotheses on APPs relevant to beta cells. We further elaborate on the potential role of these pathways in T1D pathogenesis, based on the current knowledge of antigens presented by beta cells. A better understanding of these pathways may pinpoint novel mechanisms amenable to therapeutic targeting to modulate the immunogenicity of beta cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Carré
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, CNRS, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Roberto Mallone
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, CNRS, INSERM, Paris, France.,Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Diabétologie et Immunologie Clinique, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
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Viloria K, Hewison M, Hodson DJ. Vitamin D binding protein/GC-globulin: a novel regulator of alpha cell function and glucagon secretion. J Physiol 2021; 600:1119-1133. [PMID: 33719063 DOI: 10.1113/jp280890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The contribution of glucagon to type 1 and type 2 diabetes has long been known, but the underlying defects in alpha cell function are not well-described. During both disease states, alpha cells respond inappropriately to stimuli, leading to dysregulated glucagon secretion, impaired glucose tolerance and hypoglycaemia. The mechanisms involved in this dysfunction are complex, but possibly include changes in alpha cell glucose-sensing, alpha cell de-differentiation, paracrine feedback, as well as alpha cell mass. However, the molecular underpinnings of alpha cell failure are still poorly understood. Recent transcriptomic analyses have identified vitamin D binding protein (DBP), encoded by GC/Gc, as an alpha cell signature gene. DBP is highly localized to the liver and alpha cells and is virtually absent from other tissues and cell types under non-pathological conditions. While the vitamin D transportation role of DBP is well characterized in the liver and circulation, its function in alpha cells remains more enigmatic. Recent work reveals that loss of DBP leads to smaller and hyperplastic alpha cells, which secrete less glucagon in response to low glucose concentration, despite vitamin D sufficiency. Alpha cells lacking DBP display impaired Ca2+ fluxes and Na+ conductance, as well as changes in glucagon granule distribution. Underlying these defects is an increase in the ratio of cytoskeletal F-actin to G-actin, highlighting a novel intracellular actin scavenging role for DBP in islets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Viloria
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Martin Hewison
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - David J Hodson
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Xu SY, Zhang Z, Liu CY, Guo QY, Lu B, Gu P, Shao JQ. Association between time in range, a novel measurement of glycemic control and islet secretory function in chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus-An observational study. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2021; 173:108684. [PMID: 33539867 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2021.108684] [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: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To explore the association between dynamic islet secretory function and TIR (time in range), a new valuable metric of glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS In this observational study 256 patients with type 2 diabetes were included and continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) were applied to monitor blood glucose and also the calculation of TIR [the time spent in an individual's target glucose range (usually 3.9-10 mmol/L)]. The participants were divided into 3 groups according to the tertiles of TIR, 85 cases with TIR ≥ 65.05% (T1 group), 86 cases with 41.84 < TIR ≤ 65.05% (T2 group) and 85 cases with TIR < 41.84% (T3 group). Serum glucagon (GLA0h, GLA0.5h, GLA1h, GLA2h, GLA3h), C-peptide (Cp0h, Cp0.5h, Cp1h, Cp2h, Cp3h) concentration at different time points were measured after a 100 g standard steamed buns meal test to assess the pancreatic alpha cell and beta cell function. Spearman correlation analysis and multivariate linear stepwise regression analysis were adopted for statistical analysis. RESULTS The average age and diabetes duration of all the participants were separately 56.09 ± 13.8 years and 8.0 (4.0,15.0) years. Compared with patients in T1 group, participants in group T2 and T3 tend to have a lower concentration of C-peptide at all time points, as well as GLA0h, GLA2h and GLA3h (p < 0.05). TIR was positively correlated with C-peptide at different time points, area under the curve of C-peptide in half an hour (AUCCp0.5h), GLA0h, GLA3h, area under the curve of glucagon in half an hour (AUCGLA0.5h)(rs = 0.263, 0.414, 0.510, 0.587, 0.528, 0.360, 0.259, 0.144 and 0.208, respectively, p < 0.05) and was negatively correlated with the increment of serum glucagon from baseline at 0.5 h, 1 h and 2 h after the standard energy loaded(△GLA0.5h, △GLA1h, △GLA2h)(rs = -0.152,-0.172 and -0.203, respectively, p < 0.05). Cp2h, Cp0h and GLA0h were independent factors for TIR (β = 6.558,-6.930, 0.247, respectively, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Both islet alpha cell and beta cell secretory function have important influence on TIR, a novel vital index of glycemic fluctuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Ying Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University, School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Chun-Yan Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Qing-Yu Guo
- Department of Endocrinology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Bin Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ping Gu
- Department of Endocrinology, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University, School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jia-Qing Shao
- Department of Endocrinology, Jinling Hospital, Southeast University, School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Jo S, Xu G, Jing G, Chen J, Shalev A. Human Glucagon Expression Is under the Control of miR-320a. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6052618. [PMID: 33367814 PMCID: PMC7814302 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Increased glucagon is a hallmark of diabetes and leads to worsening of the hyperglycemia, but the molecular mechanisms causing it are still unknown. We therefore investigated the possibility that microRNAs might be involved in the regulation of glucagon. Indeed, analysis of the glucagon 3' untranslated region (UTR) revealed potential binding sites for miR-320a, and using luciferase reporter assays we found that miR-320a directly targets the 3' UTRs of human and rodent glucagon. In addition, endogenous glucagon mRNA and protein expression as well as glucagon secretion were reduced in response to miR-320a overexpression, whereas inhibition of miR-320a upregulated glucagon expression. Interestingly, miR-320a expression was decreased by high glucose, and this was associated with an increase in glucagon expression in human islets and mouse αTC1-6 cells. Moreover, miR-320a overexpression completely blunted these effects. Importantly, miR-320a was also significantly downregulated in human islets of subjects with type 2 diabetes and this was accompanied by increased glucagon expression. Thus, our data suggest that glucose-induced downregulation of miR-320a may contribute to the paradoxical increase in glucagon observed in type 2 diabetes and reveal for the first time that glucagon expression is under the control by a microRNA providing novel insight into the abnormal regulation of glucagon in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- SeongHo Jo
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Guanlan Xu
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Gu Jing
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Junqin Chen
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Anath Shalev
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center and Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Correspondence: Anath Shalev, MD, Professor and Director, Comprehensive Diabetes Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1825 University Blvd, SHELBY Bldg 1206, Birmingham, AL 35294-2182, USA.
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Yabe SG, Fukuda S, Nishida J, Takeda F, Nashiro K, Okochi H. Efficient induction of pancreatic alpha cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells by controlling the timing for BMP antagonism and activation of retinoic acid signaling. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245204. [PMID: 33428669 PMCID: PMC7799802 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is caused by breakdown of blood glucose homeostasis, which is maintained by an exquisite balance between insulin and glucagon produced respectively by pancreatic beta cells and alpha cells. However, little is known about the mechanism of inducing glucagon secretion from human alpha cells. Many methods for generating pancreatic beta cells from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have been reported, but only two papers have reported generation of pancreatic alpha cells from hPSCs. Because NKX6.1 has been suggested as a very important gene for determining cell fate between pancreatic beta and alpha cells, we searched for the factors affecting expression of NKX6.1 in our beta cell differentiation protocols. We found that BMP antagonism and activation of retinoic acid signaling at stage 2 (from definitive endoderm to primitive gut tube) effectively suppressed NKX6.1 expression at later stages. Using two different hPSCs lines, treatment with BMP signaling inhibitor (LDN193189) and retinoic acid agonist (EC23) at Stage 2 reduced NKX6.1 expression and allowed differentiation of almost all cells into pancreatic alpha cells in vivo after transplantation under a kidney capsule. Our study demonstrated that the cell fate of pancreatic cells can be controlled by adjusting the expression level of NKX6.1 with proper timing of BMP antagonism and activation of retinoic acid signaling during the pancreatic differentiation process. Our method is useful for efficient induction of pancreatic alpha cells from hPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeharu G Yabe
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satsuki Fukuda
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junko Nishida
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fujie Takeda
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyoko Nashiro
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Okochi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Moede T, Leibiger B, Vaca Sanchez P, Daré E, Köhler M, Muhandiramlage TP, Leibiger IB, Berggren PO. Glucokinase intrinsically regulates glucose sensing and glucagon secretion in pancreatic alpha cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20145. [PMID: 33214580 PMCID: PMC7678872 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76863-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The secretion of glucagon by pancreatic alpha cells is regulated by a number of external and intrinsic factors. While the electrophysiological processes linking a lowering of glucose concentrations to an increased glucagon release are well characterized, the evidence for the identity and function of the glucose sensor is still incomplete. In the present study we aimed to address two unsolved problems: (1) do individual alpha cells have the intrinsic capability to regulate glucagon secretion by glucose, and (2) is glucokinase the alpha cell glucose sensor in this scenario. Single cell RT-PCR was used to confirm that glucokinase is the main glucose-phosphorylating enzyme expressed in rat pancreatic alpha cells. Modulation of glucokinase activity by pharmacological activators and inhibitors led to a lowering or an increase of the glucose threshold of glucagon release from single alpha cells, measured by TIRF microscopy, respectively. Knockdown of glucokinase expression resulted in a loss of glucose control of glucagon secretion. Taken together this study provides evidence for a crucial role of glucokinase in intrinsic glucose regulation of glucagon release in rat alpha cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilo Moede
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Barbara Leibiger
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pilar Vaca Sanchez
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabetta Daré
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Köhler
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thusitha P Muhandiramlage
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingo B Leibiger
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per-Olof Berggren
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska Sjukhuset L1:03, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
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Sandoval D. Updating the Role of α-Cell Preproglucagon Products on GLP-1 Receptor-Mediated Insulin Secretion. Diabetes 2020; 69:2238-2245. [PMID: 33082272 PMCID: PMC7576561 DOI: 10.2337/dbi19-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
While the field of islet biology has historically focused its attention on understanding β-cell function and the mechanisms by which these cells become dysfunctional with diabetes, there has been a scientific shift toward greater understanding of other endocrine cells of the islet and their paracrine role in regulating the β-cell. In recent years, many questions and new data have come forward regarding the paracrine role of the α-cell and specifically preproglucagon peptides in regulating insulin secretion. The role of intestinally secreted glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) in regulation of insulin secretion has been questioned, and a physiological role of pancreatic GLP-1 in regulation of insulin secretion has been proposed. In addition, in the last 2 years, a series of studies demonstrated a physiological role for glucagon, acting via the GLP-1 receptor, in paracrine regulation of insulin secretion. Altogether, this work challenges the textbook physiology of both GLP-1 and glucagon and presents a critical paradigm shift for the field. This article addresses these new findings surrounding α-cell preproglucagon products, with a particular focus on GLP-1, in the context of their roles in insulin secretion and consequently glucose metabolism.
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Xu SFS, Andersen DB, Izarzugaza JMG, Kuhre RE, Holst JJ. In the rat pancreas, somatostatin tonically inhibits glucagon secretion and is required for glucose-induced inhibition of glucagon secretion. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2020; 229:e13464. [PMID: 32145704 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM It is debated whether the inhibition of glucagon secretion by glucose results from direct effects of glucose on the α-cell (intrinsic regulation) or by paracrine effects exerted by beta- or delta-cell products. METHODS To study this in a more physiological model than isolated islets, we perfused isolated rat pancreases and measured glucagon, insulin and somatostatin secretion in response to graded increases in perfusate glucose concentration (from 3.5 to 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12 mmol/L) as well as glucagon responses to blockage/activation of insulin/GABA/somatostatin signalling with or without addition of glucose. RESULTS Glucagon secretion was reduced by about 50% (compared to baseline secretion at 3.5 mmol/L) within minutes after increasing glucose from 4 to 5 mmol/L (P < .01, n = 13). Insulin secretion was increased minimally, but significantly, compared to baseline (3.5 mmol/L) at 4 mmol/L, whereas somatostatin secretion was not significantly increased from baseline until 7 mmol/L. Hereafter secretion of both increased gradually up to 12 mmol/L glucose. Neither recombinant insulin (1 µmol/L), GABA (300 µmol/L) or the insulin-receptor antagonist S961 (at 1 µmol/L) affected basal (3.5 mmol/L) or glucose-induced (5.0 mmol/L) attenuation of glucagon secretion (n = 7-8). Somatostatin-14 attenuated glucagon secretion by ~ 95%, and blockage of somatostatin-receptor (SSTR)-2 or combined blockage of SSTR-2, -3 and -5 by specific antagonists increased glucagon output (at 3.5 mmol/L glucose) and prevented glucose-induced (from 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L) suppression of secretion. CONCLUSION Somatostatin is a powerful and tonic inhibitor of glucagon secretion from the rat pancreas and is required for glucose to inhibit glucagon secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella F. S. Xu
- 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
| | - 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
| | | | - 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 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
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Dapagliflozin not only improves hepatic injury and pancreatic endoplasmic reticulum stress, but also induces hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes expression in obese rats. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 133:2415-2430. [PMID: 31769484 DOI: 10.1042/cs20190863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With an increasing prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome, exploring the effects and delineating the mechanisms of possible therapeutic agents are of critical importance. We examined the effects of SGLT2 inhibitor-dapagliflozin on insulin resistance, hepatic gluconeogenesis, hepatic injury and pancreatic ER stress in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Wistar rats were fed with normal diet (ND) or high-fat diet for 16 weeks. Then high-fat rats were given vehicle (HF) or dapagliflozin (1 mg/kg/day; HFDapa) or metformin (30 mg/kg/day; HFMet) for another 4 weeks. RESULTS We found that dapagliflozin ameliorated high-fat diet-induced insulin resistance. The fasting plasma glucose level was comparable among groups, although dapagliflozin treatment led to substantial glycosuria. Hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes, PEPCK, G6Pase and FBPase, expression was not different in HF rats compared with ND rats. Meanwhile, dapagliflozin-treated group exhibited the elevation of these enzymes in parallel with the rise of transcription factor CREB, co-factor PGC1α and upstream regulator SIRT1. Hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation and NAFLD activity score as well as hepatic and pancreatic ER stress and apoptosis in obese rats were attenuated by dapagliflozin. CONCLUSION We conclude that dapagliflozin improved obesity-related insulin resistance, hepatic and pancreatic injury independent of fasting plasma glucose level. Of note, dapagliflozin-induced glycosuria apparently triggered the up-regulation of hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes to prevent hypoglycemia.
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Reduced somatostatin signalling leads to hypersecretion of glucagon in mice fed a high-fat diet. Mol Metab 2020; 40:101021. [PMID: 32446876 PMCID: PMC7322681 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2020.101021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Elevated plasma glucagon is an early symptom of diabetes, occurring in subjects with impaired glucose regulation. Here, we explored alpha-cell function in female mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods Female mice expressing the Ca2+ indicator GCaMP3 specifically in alpha-cells were fed a high-fat or control (CTL) diet. We then conducted in vivo phenotyping of these mice, as well as experiments on isolated (ex vivo) islets and in the in situ perfused pancreas. Results In HFD-fed mice, fed plasma glucagon levels were increased and glucagon secretion from isolated islets and in the perfused mouse pancreas was also elevated. In mice fed a CTL diet, increasing glucose reduced intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) oscillation frequency and amplitude. This effect was also observed in HFD mice; however, both the frequency and amplitude of the [Ca2+]i oscillations were higher than those in CTL alpha-cells. Given that alpha-cells are under strong paracrine control from neighbouring somatostatin-secreting delta-cells, we hypothesised that this elevation of alpha-cell output was due to a lack of somatostatin (SST) secretion. Indeed, SST secretion in isolated islets from HFD-fed mice was reduced but exogenous SST also failed to suppress glucagon secretion and [Ca2+]i activity from HFD alpha-cells, in contrast to observations in CTL mice. Conclusions These findings suggest that reduced delta-cell function, combined with intrinsic changes in alpha-cells including sensitivity to somatostatin, accounts for the hyperglucagonaemia in mice fed a HFD. HFD feeding causes hyperglucagonaemia in vivo. Glucagon is inadequately suppressed by glucose in HFD-fed mice. Alpha-cell [Ca2+]i oscillations and glucagon output are elevated ex vivo in response to HFD feeding. SST secretion from HFD islets is reduced. Alpha-cells from HFD-fed mice become ‘resistant’ to SST.
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A method for the generation of human stem cell-derived alpha cells. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2241. [PMID: 32382023 PMCID: PMC7205884 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16049-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The generation of pancreatic cell types from renewable cell sources holds promise for cell replacement therapies for diabetes. Although most effort has focused on generating pancreatic beta cells, considerable evidence indicates that glucagon secreting alpha cells are critically involved in disease progression and proper glucose control. Here we report on the generation of stem cell-derived human pancreatic alpha (SC-alpha) cells from pluripotent stem cells via a transient pre-alpha cell intermediate. These pre-alpha cells exhibit a transcriptional profile similar to mature alpha cells and although they produce proinsulin protein, they do not secrete significant amounts of processed insulin. Compound screening identified a protein kinase c activator that promotes maturation of pre-alpha cells into SC-alpha cells. The resulting SC-alpha cells do not express insulin, share an ultrastructure similar to cadaveric alpha cells, express and secrete glucagon in response to glucose and some glucagon secretagogues, and elevate blood glucose upon transplantation in mice.
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39
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Omar-Hmeadi M, Lund PE, Gandasi NR, Tengholm A, Barg S. Paracrine control of α-cell glucagon exocytosis is compromised in human type-2 diabetes. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1896. [PMID: 32312960 PMCID: PMC7171169 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15717-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucagon is released from pancreatic α-cells to activate pathways that raise blood glucose. Its secretion is regulated by α-cell-intrinsic glucose sensing and paracrine control through insulin and somatostatin. To understand the inadequately high glucagon levels that contribute to hyperglycemia in type-2 diabetes (T2D), we analyzed granule behavior, exocytosis and membrane excitability in α-cells of 68 non-diabetic and 21 T2D human donors. We report that exocytosis is moderately reduced in α-cells of T2D donors, without changes in voltage-dependent ion currents or granule trafficking. Dispersed α-cells have a non-physiological V-shaped dose response to glucose, with maximal exocytosis at hyperglycemia. Within intact islets, hyperglycemia instead inhibits α-cell exocytosis, but not in T2D or when paracrine inhibition by insulin or somatostatin is blocked. Surface expression of somatostatin-receptor-2 is reduced in T2D, suggesting a mechanism for the observed somatostatin resistance. Thus, elevated glucagon in human T2D may reflect α-cell insensitivity to paracrine inhibition at hyperglycemia. Glucagon is elevated Type-2 diabetes, which contributes to poor glucose control in patients with the disease. Here the authors report that secretion of the hormone is controlled by paracrine inhibition, and that resistance of α-cells to somatostatin can explain hyperglucagonemia in type-2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhmmad Omar-Hmeadi
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Box 571, BMC, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per-Eric Lund
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Box 571, BMC, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nikhil R Gandasi
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Box 571, BMC, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Tengholm
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Box 571, BMC, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Barg
- Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Box 571, BMC, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Yu Q, Lai BK, Ahooghalandari P, Helander A, Gylfe E, Gilon P, Tengholm A. γ-Hydroxybutyrate does not mediate glucose inhibition of glucagon secretion. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:5419-5426. [PMID: 32156704 PMCID: PMC7170508 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypersecretion of glucagon from pancreatic α-cells strongly contributes to diabetic hyperglycemia. Moreover, failure of α-cells to increase glucagon secretion in response to falling blood glucose concentrations compromises the defense against hypoglycemia, a common complication in diabetes therapy. However, the mechanisms underlying glucose regulation of glucagon secretion are poorly understood and likely involve both α-cell-intrinsic and intraislet paracrine signaling. Among paracrine factors, glucose-stimulated release of the GABA metabolite γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) from pancreatic β-cells might mediate glucose suppression of glucagon release via GHB receptors on α-cells. However, the direct effects of GHB on α-cell signaling and glucagon release have not been investigated. Here, we found that GHB (4-10 μm) lacked effects on the cytoplasmic concentrations of the secretion-regulating messengers Ca2+ and cAMP in mouse α-cells. Glucagon secretion from perifused mouse islets was also unaffected by GHB at both 1 and 7 mm glucose. The GHB receptor agonist 3-chloropropanoic acid and the antagonist NCS-382 had no effects on glucagon secretion and did not affect stimulation of secretion induced by a drop in glucose from 7 to 1 mm Inhibition of endogenous GHB formation with the GABA transaminase inhibitor vigabatrin also failed to influence glucagon secretion at 1 mm glucose and did not prevent the suppressive effect of 7 mm glucose. In human islets, GHB tended to stimulate glucagon secretion at 1 mm glucose, an effect mimicked by 3-chloropropanoic acid. We conclude that GHB does not mediate the inhibitory effect of glucose on glucagon secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yu
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bao Khanh Lai
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Pole of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Anders Helander
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Clinical Pharmacology and Clinical Chemistry, Karolinska University Laboratory, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Gylfe
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Patrick Gilon
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Pole of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anders Tengholm
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Lu S, Liu G, Chen T, Wang W, Hu J, Tang D, Peng X. Lentivirus-Mediated hFGF21 Stable Expression in Liver of Diabetic Rats Model and Its Antidiabetic Effect Observation. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:472-484. [PMID: 32027183 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2019.322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been increasing annually, which is a serious threat to human health. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is one of the most popular targets for the treatment of diabetes because it effectively improves glycolipid metabolism. In our experiment, human FGF21 (hFGF21) was injected and stably expressed in the liver tissues of a rat T2DM model with lentivirus system. Based on clinical and histopathological examinations, islet cells were protected and liver tissue lesions were repaired for >4 months. Glucose metabolism and histopathology were controlled perfectly when hFGF21 was stably expressed in partial liver of T2DM rats. The results showed that the liver tissue cell apoptosis was reduced, the lipid droplet content was decreased, the oxidative stress indexes were improved, the glycogen content was increased, and the islet cells were increased too. Besides, insulin sensitivity and glycogen synthesis-related genes expression were increased, but cell apoptosis-related genes caspase3 and NFκB expression were decreased. The effectiveness of results suggested that injecting hFGF21 to rats liver could effectively treat T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiyao Lu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Kunming, China
| | - Guanglong Liu
- The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Tianxing Chen
- The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Wanpu Wang
- The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Jingwen Hu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Donghong Tang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaozhong Peng
- Institute of Medical Biology, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Kunming, China
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Singh T, Suarez Castellanos I, Bhowmick DC, Cohen J, Jeremic A, Zderic V. Therapeutic Ultrasound-Induced Insulin Release in Vivo. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:639-648. [PMID: 31837888 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2019.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The tolerability and efficacy of low-frequency, low-intensity therapeutic ultrasound-induced insulin release was investigated in a pre-clinical in vivo murine model. The treatment groups received a single 5-min continuous sonication at 1 MHz and 1.0 W/cm2. Insulin and glucagon levels in the serum were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The pancreas was excised and sectioned for histologic analysis. In terminal studies, we observed a moderate (∼50 pM) but significant increase in blood insulin concentration in vivo immediately after sonication compared with a decrease of approximately 60 pM in sham animals (n < 6, p < 0.005). No difference was observed in the change in glucose or glucagon concentrations between groups. Comparisons of hematoxylin and eosin-stained terminal and survival pancreatic tissue revealed no visible differences or evidence of damage. This study is the first step in assessing the translational potential of therapeutic ultrasound as a treatment for early stages of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ivan Suarez Castellanos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA; INSERM, Laboratory of Therapeutic Applications of Ultrasound (LabTAU), Lyon, France
| | | | - Joshua Cohen
- Medical Faculty Associates, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Aleksandar Jeremic
- Department of Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Vesna Zderic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
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Grubelnik V, Zmazek J, Markovič R, Gosak M, Marhl M. Modelling of energy-driven switch for glucagon and insulin secretion. J Theor Biol 2020; 493:110213. [PMID: 32109481 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2020.110213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We present a mathematical model of the energy-driven metabolic switch for glucagon and insulin secretion from pancreatic alpha and beta cells, respectively. The energy status related to hormone secretion is studied for various glucose concentrations. Additionally, the physiological response is studied with regards to the presence of other metabolites, particularly the free-fatty acids. At low glucose, the ATP production in alpha cells is high due to free-fatty acids oxidation in mitochondria, which enables glucagon secretion. When the glucose concentration is elevated above the threshold value, the glucagon secretion is switched off due to the contribution of glycolytic ATP production, representing an "anaerobic switch". On the other hand, during hypoglycemia, the ATP production in beta cells is low, reflecting a "waiting state" for glucose as the main metabolite. When glucose is elevated above the threshold value, the oxidative fate of glucose in mitochondria is the main source of energy required for effective insulin secretion, i.e. the "aerobic switch". Our results show the importance of well-regulated and fine-tuned energetic processes in pancreatic alpha and beta cells required for efficient hormone secretion and hence effective blood glucose regulation. These energetic processes have to be appropriately switched on and off based on the sensing of different metabolites by alpha and beta cells. Our computational results indicate that disturbances in cell energetics (e.g. mitochondrial dysfunction), and dysfunctional metabolite sensing and distribution throughout the cell might be related to pathologies such as metabolic syndrome and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Grubelnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia
| | - Jan Zmazek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia
| | - Rene Markovič
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia; Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia
| | - Marko Gosak
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia
| | - Marko Marhl
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia; Faculty of Education, University of Maribor, Maribor SI-2000, Slovenia.
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44
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Gilon P. The Role of α-Cells in Islet Function and Glucose Homeostasis in Health and Type 2 Diabetes. J Mol Biol 2020; 432:1367-1394. [PMID: 31954131 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic α-cells are the major source of glucagon, a hormone that counteracts the hypoglycemic action of insulin and strongly contributes to the correction of acute hypoglycemia. The mechanisms by which glucose controls glucagon secretion are hotly debated, and it is still unclear to what extent this control results from a direct action of glucose on α-cells or is indirectly mediated by β- and/or δ-cells. Besides its hyperglycemic action, glucagon has many other effects, in particular on lipid and amino acid metabolism. Counterintuitively, glucagon seems also required for an optimal insulin secretion in response to glucose by acting on its cognate receptor and, even more importantly, on GLP-1 receptors. Patients with diabetes mellitus display two main alterations of glucagon secretion: a relative hyperglucagonemia that aggravates hyperglycemia, and an impaired glucagon response to hypoglycemia. Under metabolic stress states, such as diabetes, pancreatic α-cells also secrete GLP-1, a glucose-lowering hormone, whereas the gut can produce glucagon. The contribution of extrapancreatic glucagon to the abnormal glucose homeostasis is unclear. Here, I review the possible mechanisms of control of glucagon secretion and the role of α-cells on islet function in healthy state. I discuss the possible causes of the abnormal glucagonemia in diabetes, with particular emphasis on type 2 diabetes, and I briefly comment the current antidiabetic therapies affecting α-cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Gilon
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Pole of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Avenue Hippocrate 55 (B1.55.06), Brussels, B-1200, Belgium.
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Grubelnik V, Markovič R, Lipovšek S, Leitinger G, Gosak M, Dolenšek J, Valladolid-Acebes I, Berggren PO, Stožer A, Perc M, Marhl M. Modelling of dysregulated glucagon secretion in type 2 diabetes by considering mitochondrial alterations in pancreatic α-cells. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2020; 7:191171. [PMID: 32218947 PMCID: PMC7029933 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.191171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been associated with insulin resistance and the failure of β-cells to produce and secrete enough insulin as the disease progresses. However, clinical treatments based solely on insulin secretion and action have had limited success. The focus is therefore shifting towards α-cells, in particular to the dysregulated secretion of glucagon. Our qualitative electron-microscopy-based observations gave an indication that mitochondria in α-cells are altered in Western-diet-induced T2DM. In particular, α-cells extracted from mouse pancreatic tissue showed a lower density of mitochondria, a less expressed matrix and a lower number of cristae. These deformities in mitochondrial ultrastructure imply a decreased efficiency in mitochondrial ATP production, which prompted us to theoretically explore and clarify one of the most challenging problems associated with T2DM, namely the lack of glucagon secretion in hypoglycaemia and its oversecretion at high blood glucose concentrations. To this purpose, we constructed a novel computational model that links α-cell metabolism with their electrical activity and glucagon secretion. Our results show that defective mitochondrial metabolism in α-cells can account for dysregulated glucagon secretion in T2DM, thus improving our understanding of T2DM pathophysiology and indicating possibilities for new clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Grubelnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Rene Markovič
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Saška Lipovšek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Gerd Leitinger
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Marko Gosak
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Jurij Dolenšek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Ismael Valladolid-Acebes
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital L1, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per-Olof Berggren
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital L1, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andraž Stožer
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Perc
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Complexity Science Hub Vienna, 1080 Vienna, Austria
- Authors for correspondence: Matjač Perc e-mail:
| | - Marko Marhl
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Education, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Authors for correspondence: Marko Marhl e-mail:
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Grubelnik V, Markovič R, Lipovšek S, Leitinger G, Gosak M, Dolenšek J, Valladolid-Acebes I, Berggren PO, Stožer A, Perc M, Marhl M. Modelling of dysregulated glucagon secretion in type 2 diabetes by considering mitochondrial alterations in pancreatic α-cells. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2020. [PMID: 32218947 DOI: 10.5061/dryad.9n2k1vk] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been associated with insulin resistance and the failure of β-cells to produce and secrete enough insulin as the disease progresses. However, clinical treatments based solely on insulin secretion and action have had limited success. The focus is therefore shifting towards α-cells, in particular to the dysregulated secretion of glucagon. Our qualitative electron-microscopy-based observations gave an indication that mitochondria in α-cells are altered in Western-diet-induced T2DM. In particular, α-cells extracted from mouse pancreatic tissue showed a lower density of mitochondria, a less expressed matrix and a lower number of cristae. These deformities in mitochondrial ultrastructure imply a decreased efficiency in mitochondrial ATP production, which prompted us to theoretically explore and clarify one of the most challenging problems associated with T2DM, namely the lack of glucagon secretion in hypoglycaemia and its oversecretion at high blood glucose concentrations. To this purpose, we constructed a novel computational model that links α-cell metabolism with their electrical activity and glucagon secretion. Our results show that defective mitochondrial metabolism in α-cells can account for dysregulated glucagon secretion in T2DM, thus improving our understanding of T2DM pathophysiology and indicating possibilities for new clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Grubelnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Rene Markovič
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Saška Lipovšek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Gerd Leitinger
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Marko Gosak
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Jurij Dolenšek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Ismael Valladolid-Acebes
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital L1, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per-Olof Berggren
- The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital L1, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andraž Stožer
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Perc
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Complexity Science Hub Vienna, 1080 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marko Marhl
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Education, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
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Asadi F, Dhanvantari S. Stathmin-2 Mediates Glucagon Secretion From Pancreatic α-Cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:29. [PMID: 32117057 PMCID: PMC7011091 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of glucagon hypersecretion from pancreatic α-cells is an appealing strategy for the treatment of diabetes. Our hypothesis is that proteins that associate with glucagon within alpha cell secretory granules will regulate glucagon secretion, and may provide druggable targets for controlling abnormal glucagon secretion in diabetes. Recently, we identified a dynamic glucagon interactome within the secretory granules of the α cell line, αTC1-6, and showed that select proteins within the interactome could modulate glucagon secretion. In the present study, we show that one of these interactome proteins, the neuronal protein stathmin-2, is expressed in αTC1-6 cells and in mouse pancreatic alpha cells, and is a novel regulator of glucagon secretion. The secretion of both glucagon and Stmn2 was significantly enhanced in response to 55 mM K+, and immunofluorescence confocal microscopy showed co-localization of stathmin-2 with glucagon and the secretory granule markers chromogranin A and VAMP-2 in αTC1-6 cells. In mouse pancreatic islets, Stathmin-2 co-localized with glucagon, but not with insulin, and co-localized with secretory pathway markers. To show a function for stathmin-2 in regulating glucagon secretion, we showed that siRNA-mediated depletion of stathmin-2 in αTC1-6 cells caused glucagon secretion to become constitutive without any effect on proglucagon mRNA levels, while overexpression of stathmin-2 completely abolished both basal and K+-stimulated glucagon secretion. Overexpression of stathmin-2 increased the localization of glucagon into the endosomal-lysosomal compartment, while depletion of stathmin-2 reduced the endosomal localization of glucagon. Therefore, we describe stathmin-2 as having a novel role as an alpha cell secretory granule protein that modulates glucagon secretion via trafficking through the endosomal-lysosomal system. These findings describe a potential new pathway for the regulation of glucagon secretion, and may have implications for controlling glucagon hypersecretion in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Asadi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Savita Dhanvantari
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Savita Dhanvantari
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Quesada-Candela C, Tudurí E, Marroquí L, Alonso-Magdalena P, Quesada I, Nadal Á. Morphological and functional adaptations of pancreatic alpha-cells during late pregnancy in the mouse. Metabolism 2020; 102:153963. [PMID: 31593706 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2019.153963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy represents a major metabolic challenge for the mother, and involves a compensatory response of the pancreatic beta-cell to maintain normoglycemia. However, although pancreatic alpha-cells play a key role in glucose homeostasis and seem to be involved in gestational diabetes, there is no information about their potential adaptations or changes during pregnancy. MATERIAL AND METHODS Non-pregnant (controls) and pregnant C57BL/6 mice at gestational day 18.5 (G18.5) and their isolated pancreatic islets were used for in vivo and ex vivo studies, respectively. The effect of pregnancy hormones was tested in glucagon-secreting α-TC1.9 cells. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed in pancreatic slices. Glucagon gene expression was monitored by RT-qPCR. Glucagon secretion and plasma hormones were measured by ELISA. RESULTS Pregnant mice on G18.5 exhibited alpha-cell hypertrophy as well as augmented alpha-cell area and mass. This alpha-cell mass expansion was mainly due to increased proliferation. No changes in alpha-cell apoptosis, ductal neogenesis, or alpha-to-beta transdifferentiation were found compared with controls. Pregnant mice on G18.5 exhibited hypoglucagonemia. Additionally, in vitro glucagon secretion at low glucose levels was decreased in isolated islets from pregnant animals. Glucagon content was also reduced. Experiments in α-TC1.9 cells indicated that, unlike estradiol and progesterone, placental lactogens and prolactin stimulated alpha-cell proliferation. Placental lactogens, prolactin and estradiol also inhibited glucagon release from α-TC1.9 cells at low glucose levels. CONCLUSIONS The pancreatic alpha-cell in mice undergoes several morphofunctional changes during late pregnancy, which may contribute to proper glucose homeostasis. Gestational hormones are likely involved in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Quesada-Candela
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular (IBMC), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain
| | - Eva Tudurí
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular (IBMC), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain
| | - Laura Marroquí
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular (IBMC), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain
| | - Paloma Alonso-Magdalena
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular (IBMC), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain
| | - Ivan Quesada
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular (IBMC), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain.
| | - Ángel Nadal
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular (IBMC), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain.
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49
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Noguchi GM, Huising MO. Integrating the inputs that shape pancreatic islet hormone release. Nat Metab 2019; 1:1189-1201. [PMID: 32694675 PMCID: PMC7378277 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-019-0148-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The pancreatic islet is a complex mini organ composed of a variety of endocrine cells and their support cells, which together tightly control blood glucose homeostasis. Changes in glucose concentration are commonly regarded as the chief signal controlling insulin-secreting beta cells, glucagon-secreting alpha cells and somatostatin-secreting delta cells. However, each of these cell types is highly responsive to a multitude of endocrine, paracrine, nutritional and neural inputs, which collectively shape the final endocrine output of the islet. Here, we review the principal inputs for each islet-cell type and the physiological circumstances in which these signals arise, through the prism of the insights generated by the transcriptomes of each of the major endocrine-cell types. A comprehensive integration of the factors that influence blood glucose homeostasis is essential to successfully improve therapeutic strategies for better diabetes management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glyn M Noguchi
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Mark O Huising
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
- Department of Physiology & Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
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50
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Briant LJB, Dodd MS, Chibalina MV, Rorsman NJG, Johnson PRV, Carmeliet P, Rorsman P, Knudsen JG. CPT1a-Dependent Long-Chain Fatty Acid Oxidation Contributes to Maintaining Glucagon Secretion from Pancreatic Islets. Cell Rep 2019; 23:3300-3311. [PMID: 29898400 PMCID: PMC6581793 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucagon, the principal hyperglycemic hormone, is secreted from pancreatic islet α cells as part of the counter-regulatory response to hypoglycemia. Hence, secretory output from α cells is under high demand in conditions of low glucose supply. Many tissues oxidize fat as an alternate energy substrate. Here, we show that glucagon secretion in low glucose conditions is maintained by fatty acid metabolism in both mouse and human islets, and that inhibiting this metabolic pathway profoundly decreases glucagon output by depolarizing α cell membrane potential and decreasing action potential amplitude. We demonstrate, by using experimental and computational approaches, that this is not mediated by the KATP channel, but instead due to reduced operation of the Na+-K+ pump. These data suggest that counter-regulatory secretion of glucagon is driven by fatty acid metabolism, and that the Na+-K+ pump is an important ATP-dependent regulator of α cell function. Glucagon secretion in low glucose is maintained by CPT1a-dependent FAO Loss of CPT1a-dependent FAO in mouse and human islets decreases glucagon secretion CPT1a-dependent FAO maintains glucagon secretion by supplying ATP to the Na+-K+-ATPase CPT1a-dependent FAO contributes to the counter-regulatory secretion of glucagon
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Affiliation(s)
- Linford J B Briant
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK; Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QD, UK
| | - Michael S Dodd
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK; Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Margarita V Chibalina
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Nils J G Rorsman
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Paul R V Johnson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK; Oxford National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LJ, UK
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrik Rorsman
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK; Metabolic Research, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Göteborg, Box 433, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Jakob G Knudsen
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK.
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