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Estes SK, Shiota C, O'Brien TP, Printz RL, Shiota M. The impact of glucagon to support postabsorptive glucose flux and glycemia in healthy rats and its attenuation in male Zucker diabetic fatty rats. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2024; 326:E308-E325. [PMID: 38265288 PMCID: PMC11193518 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00192.2023] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Hyperglucagonemia is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes (T2DM), yet the role of elevated plasma glucagon (P-GCG) to promote excessive postabsorptive glucose production and contribute to hyperglycemia in patients with this disease remains debatable. We investigated the acute action of P-GCG to safeguard/support postabsorptive endogenous glucose production (EGP) and euglycemia in healthy Zucker control lean (ZCL) rats. Using male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats that exhibit the typical metabolic disorders of human T2DM, such as excessive EGP, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and hyperglucagonemia, we examined the ability of hyperglucagonemia to promote greater rates of postabsorptive EGP and hyperglycemia. Euglycemic or hyperglycemic basal insulin (INS-BC) and glucagon (GCG-BC) clamps were performed in the absence or during an acute setting of glucagon deficiency (GCG-DF, ∼10% of basal), either alone or in combination with insulin deficiency (INS-DF, ∼10% of basal). Glucose appearance, disappearance, and cycling rates were measured using [2-3H] and [3-3H]-glucose. In ZCL rats, GCG-DF reduced the levels of hepatic cyclic AMP, EGP, and plasma glucose (PG) by 50%, 32%, and 50%, respectively. EGP fell in the presence GCG-DF and INS-BC, but under GCG-DF and INS-DF, EGP and PG increased two- and threefold, respectively. GCG-DF revealed the hyperglucagonemia present in ZDF rats lacked the ability to regulate hepatic intracellular cyclic AMP levels and glucose flux, since EGP and PG levels fell by only 10%. We conclude that the liver in T2DM suffers from resistance to all three major regulatory factors, glucagon, insulin, and glucose, thus leading to a loss of metabolic flexibility.NEW & NOTEWORTHY In postabsorptive state, basal plasma insulin (P-INS) and plasma glucose (PG) act dominantly to increase hepatic glucose cycling and reduce endogenous glucose production (EGP) and PG in healthy rats, which is only counteracted by the acute action of basal plasma glucagon (P-GCG) to support EGP and euglycemia. Hyperglucagonemia, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) present in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, is not the primary mediator of hyperglycemia and high EGP as commonly thought; instead, the liver is resistant to glucagon as well as insulin and glucose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanea K Estes
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Chiyo Shiota
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Tracy P O'Brien
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Richard L Printz
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Masakazu Shiota
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
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2
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Liu T, Khanal S, Hertslet GD, Lamichhane R. Single-molecule analysis reveals that a glucagon-bound extracellular domain of the glucagon receptor is dynamic. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105160. [PMID: 37586587 PMCID: PMC10514447 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic information is vital to understanding the activation mechanism of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Despite the availability of high-resolution structures of different conformational states, the dynamics of those states at the molecular level are poorly understood. Here, we used total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy to study the extracellular domain (ECD) of the glucagon receptor (GCGR), a class B family GPCR that controls glucose homeostasis. Single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer was used to observe the ECD dynamics of GCGR molecules expressed and purified from mammalian cells. We observed that for apo-GCGR, the ECD is dynamic and spent time predominantly in a closed conformation. In the presence of glucagon, the ECD is wide open and also shows more dynamic behavior than apo-GCGR, a finding that was not previously reported. These results suggest that both apo-GCGR and glucagon-bound GCGRs show reversible opening and closing of the ECD with respect to the seven-transmembrane (7TM) domain. This work demonstrates a molecular approach to visualizing the dynamics of the GCGR ECD and provides a foundation for understanding the conformational changes underlying GPCR activation, which is critical in the development of new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Arts & Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Susmita Khanal
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Arts & Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Gillian D Hertslet
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Arts & Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rajan Lamichhane
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Arts & Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA.
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3
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Arble DM, Hutch CR, Hafner H, Stelmak D, Leix K, Sorrell J, Pressler JW, Gregg B, Sandoval DA. The role of preproglucagon peptides in regulating β-cell morphology and responses to streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2023; 324:E217-E225. [PMID: 36652401 PMCID: PMC9970646 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00152.2022] [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: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Insulin secretion from β-cells is tightly regulated by local signaling from preproglucagon (Gcg) products from neighboring α-cells. Physiological paracrine signaling within the microenvironment of the β-cell is altered after metabolic stress, such as high-fat diet or the β-cell toxin, streptozotocin (STZ). Here, we examined the role and source of Gcg peptides in β-cell function and in response to STZ-induced hyperglycemia. We used whole body Gcg null (GcgNull) mice and mice with Gcg expression either specifically within the pancreas (GcgΔPanc) or the intestine (GcgΔIntest). With lower doses of STZ exposure, insulin levels were greater and glucose levels were lower in GcgNull mice compared with wild-type mice. When Gcg was functional only in the intestine, plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels were fully restored but these mice did not have any additional protection from STZ-induced diabetes. Pancreatic Gcg reactivation normalized the hyperglycemic response to STZ. In animals not treated with STZ, GcgNull mice had increased pancreas mass via both α- and β-cell hyperplasia and reactivation of Gcg in the intestine normalized β- but not α-cell mass, whereas pancreatic reactivation normalized both β- and α-cell mass. GcgNull and GcgΔIntest mice maintained higher β-cell mass after treatment with STZ compared with control and GcgΔPanc mice. Although in vivo insulin response to glucose was normal, global lack of Gcg impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in isolated islets. Congenital replacement of Gcg either in the pancreas or intestine normalized glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Interestingly, mice that had intestinal Gcg reactivated in adulthood had impaired insulin response to KCl. We surmise that the expansion of β-cell mass in the GcgNull mice compensated for decreased individual β-cell insulin secretion, which is sufficient to normalize glucose under physiological conditions and conferred some protection after STZ-induced diabetes.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We examined the role of Gcg on β-cell function under normal and high glucose conditions. GcgNull mice had decreased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, increased β-cell mass, and partial protection against STZ-induced hyperglycemia. Expression of Gcg within the pancreas normalized these endpoints. Intestinal expression of Gcg only normalized β-cell mass and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Increased β-cell mass in GcgNull mice likely compensated for decreased insulin secretion normalizing physiological glucose levels and conferring some protection after STZ-induced diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna M Arble
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Chelsea R Hutch
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Hannah Hafner
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Daria Stelmak
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Kyle Leix
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Joyce Sorrell
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
| | - Joshua W Pressler
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
| | - Brigid Gregg
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Darleen A Sandoval
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nutrition and Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States
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4
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Capozzi ME, D'Alessio DA, Campbell JE. The past, present, and future physiology and pharmacology of glucagon. Cell Metab 2022; 34:1654-1674. [PMID: 36323234 PMCID: PMC9641554 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of glucagon has seen the transition from an impurity in the preparation of insulin to the development of glucagon receptor agonists for use in type 1 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, glucagon receptor antagonists have been explored to reduce glycemia thought to be induced by hyperglucagonemia. However, the catabolic actions of glucagon are currently being leveraged to target the rise in obesity that paralleled that of diabetes, bringing the pharmacology of glucagon full circle. During this evolution, the physiological importance of glucagon advanced beyond the control of hepatic glucose production, incorporating critical roles for glucagon to regulate both lipid and amino acid metabolism. Thus, it is unsurprising that the study of glucagon has left several paradoxes that make it difficult to distill this hormone down to a simplified action. Here, we describe the history of glucagon from the past to the present and suggest some direction to the future of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Capozzi
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - David A D'Alessio
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Division, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Jonathan E Campbell
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Division, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
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5
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Kjeldsen SAS, Hansen LH, Esser N, Mongovin S, Winther-Sørensen M, Galsgaard KD, Hunt JE, Kissow H, Ceutz FR, Terzic D, Mark PD, Plomgaard P, Goetze JP, Goossens GH, Blaak EE, Deacon CF, Rosenkilde MM, Zraika S, Holst JJ, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Neprilysin Inhibition Increases Glucagon Levels in Humans and Mice With Potential Effects on Amino Acid Metabolism. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab084. [PMID: 34337276 PMCID: PMC8317634 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Inhibitors of the protease neprilysin (NEP) are used for treating heart failure, but are also linked to improvements in metabolism. NEP may cleave proglucagon-derived peptides, including the glucose and amino acid (AA)-regulating hormone glucagon. Studies investigating NEP inhibition on glucagon metabolism are warranted. Objective This work aims to investigate whether NEP inhibition increases glucagon levels. Methods Plasma concentrations of glucagon and AAs were measured in eight healthy men during a mixed meal with and without a single dose of the NEP inhibitor/angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist, sacubitril/valsartan (194 mg/206 mg). Long-term effects of sacubitril/valsartan (8 weeks) were investigated in individuals with obesity (n = 7). Mass spectrometry was used to investigate NEP-induced glucagon degradation, and the derived glucagon fragments were tested pharmacologically in cells transfected with the glucagon receptor (GCGR). Genetic deletion or pharmacological inhibition of NEP with or without concomitant GCGR antagonism was tested in mice to evaluate effects on AA metabolism. Results In healthy men, a single dose of sacubitril/valsartan significantly increased postprandial concentrations of glucagon by 228%, concomitantly lowering concentrations of AAs including glucagonotropic AAs. Eight-week sacubitril/valsartan treatment increased fasting glucagon concentrations in individuals with obesity. NEP cleaved glucagon into 5 inactive fragments (in vitro). Pharmacological NEP inhibition protected both exogenous and endogenous glucagon in mice after an AA challenge, while NEP-deficient mice showed elevated fasting and AA-stimulated plasma concentrations of glucagon and urea compared to controls. Conclusion NEP cleaves glucagon, and inhibitors of NEP result in hyperglucagonemia and may increase postprandial AA catabolism without affecting glycemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark
| | - Lasse H Hansen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nathalie Esser
- Department of Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-6426, USA.,Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington 98108, USA
| | - Steve Mongovin
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington 98108, USA
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark
| | - Katrine D Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jenna E Hunt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hannelouise Kissow
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik R Ceutz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark
| | - Dijana Terzic
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter D Mark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Plomgaard
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens P Goetze
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gijs H Goossens
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen E Blaak
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Carolyn F Deacon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark
| | - Mette M Rosenkilde
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sakeneh Zraika
- Department of Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-6426, USA.,Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington 98108, USA
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen,Denmark.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Singha A, Palavicini JP, Pan M, Farmer S, Sandoval D, Han X, Fujikawa T. Leptin Receptors in RIP-Cre 25Mgn Neurons Mediate Anti-dyslipidemia Effects of Leptin in Insulin-Deficient Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:588447. [PMID: 33071988 PMCID: PMC7538546 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.588447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptin is a potent endocrine hormone produced by adipose tissue and regulates a broad range of whole-body metabolism such as glucose and lipid metabolism, even without insulin. Central leptin signaling can lower hyperglycemia in insulin-deficient rodents via multiple mechanisms, including improvements of dyslipidemia. However, the specific neurons that regulate anti-dyslipidemia effects of leptin remain unidentified. Here we report that leptin receptors (LEPRs) in neurons expressing Cre recombinase driven by a short fragment of a promoter region of Ins2 gene (RIP-Cre25Mgn neurons) are required for central leptin signaling to reverse dyslipidemia, thereby hyperglycemia in insulin-deficient mice. Ablation of LEPRs in RIP-Cre25Mgn neurons completely blocks glucose-lowering effects of leptin in insulin-deficient mice. Further investigations reveal that insulin-deficient mice lacking LEPRs in RIP-Cre25Mgn neurons (RIP-CreΔLEPR mice) exhibit greater lipid levels in blood and liver compared to wild-type controls, and that leptin injection into the brain does not suppress dyslipidemia in insulin-deficient RIP-CreΔLEPR mice. Leptin administration into the brain combined with acipimox, which lowers blood lipids by suppressing triglyceride lipase activity, can restore normal glycemia in insulin-deficient RIP-CreΔLEPR mice, suggesting that excess circulating lipids are a driving-force of hyperglycemia in these mice. Collectively, our data demonstrate that LEPRs in RIP-Cre25Mgn neurons significantly contribute to glucose-lowering effects of leptin in an insulin-independent manner by improving dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Singha
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Juan Pablo Palavicini
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Meixia Pan
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Scotlynn Farmer
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Darleen Sandoval
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Xianlin Han
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Teppei Fujikawa
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- Division of Hypothalamic Research Center, Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, United States
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7
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Galsgaard KD, Jepsen SL, Kjeldsen SAS, Pedersen J, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Holst JJ. Alanine, arginine, cysteine, and proline, but not glutamine, are substrates for, and acute mediators of, the liver-α-cell axis in female mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2020; 318:E920-E929. [PMID: 32255678 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00459.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the amino acids that stimulate glucagon secretion in mice and whose metabolism depends on glucagon receptor signaling. Pancreata of female C57BL/6JRj mice were perfused with 19 individual amino acids and pyruvate (at 10 mM), and secretion of glucagon was assessed using a specific glucagon radioimmunoassay. Separately, a glucagon receptor antagonist (GRA; 25-2648, 100 mg/kg) or vehicle was administered to female C57BL/6JRj mice 3 h before an intraperitoneal injection of four different isomolar amino acid mixtures (in total 7 µmol/g body wt) as follows: mixture 1 contained alanine, arginine, cysteine, and proline; mixture 2 contained aspartate, glutamate, histidine, and lysine; mixture 3 contained citrulline, methionine, serine, and threonine; and mixture 4 contained glutamine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Blood glucose, plasma glucagon, amino acid, and insulin concentrations were measured using well-characterized methodologies. Alanine (P = 0.03), arginine (P < 0.0001), cysteine (P = 0.01), glycine (P = 0.02), lysine (P = 0.02), and proline (P = 0.03), but not glutamine (P = 0.9), stimulated glucagon secretion from the perfused mouse pancreas. However, when the four isomolar amino acid mixtures were administered in vivo, the four mixtures elicited similar glucagon responses (P > 0.5). Plasma concentrations of total amino acids in vivo were higher after administration of GRA when mixture 1 (P = 0.004) or mixture 3 (P = 0.04) were injected. Our data suggest that alanine, arginine, cysteine, and proline, but not glutamine, are involved in the acute regulation of the liver-α-cell axis in female mice, as they all increased glucagon secretion and their disappearance rate was altered by GRA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine D Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara L Jepsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Pedersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjaellands Hospital Hilleroed, University of Copenhagen, Hilleroed, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein 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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8
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Galsgaard KD, Pedersen J, Kjeldsen SAS, Winther-Sørensen M, Stojanovska E, Vilstrup H, Ørskov C, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Holst JJ. Glucagon receptor signaling is not required for N-carbamoyl glutamate- and l-citrulline-induced ureagenesis in mice. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2020; 318:G912-G927. [PMID: 32174131 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00294.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon regulates the hepatic amino acid metabolism and increases ureagenesis. Ureagenesis is activated by N-acetylglutamate (NAG), formed via activation of N-acetylglutamate synthase (NAGS). With the aim to identify the steps whereby glucagon both acutely and chronically regulates ureagenesis, we investigated whether glucagon receptor-mediated activation of ureagenesis is required in a situation where NAGS activity and/or NAG levels are sufficient to activate the first step of the urea cycle in vivo. Female C57BL/6JRj mice treated with a glucagon receptor antagonist (GRA), glucagon receptor knockout (Gcgr-/-) mice, and wild-type (Gcgr+/+) littermates received an intraperitoneal injection of N-carbamoyl glutamate (Car; a stable variant of NAG), l-citrulline (Cit), Car and Cit (Car + Cit), or PBS. In separate experiments, Gcgr-/- and Gcgr+/+ mice were administered N-carbamoyl glutamate and l-citrulline (wCar + wCit) in the drinking water for 8 wk. Car, Cit, and Car + Cit significantly (P < 0.05) increased plasma urea concentrations, independently of pharmacological and genetic disruption of glucagon receptor signaling (P = 0.9). Car increased blood glucose concentrations equally in GRA- and vehicle-treated mice (P = 0.9), whereas the increase upon Car + Cit was impaired in GRA-treated mice (P = 0.008). Blood glucose concentrations remained unchanged in Gcgr-/- mice upon Car (P = 0.2) and Car + Cit (P = 0.9). Eight weeks administration of wCar + wCit did not change blood glucose (P > 0.2), plasma amino acid (P > 0.4), and urea concentrations (P > 0.3) or the area of glucagon-positive cells (P > 0.3) in Gcgr-/- and Gcgr+/+ mice. Our data suggest that glucagon-mediated activation of ureagenesis is not required when NAGS activity and/or NAG levels are sufficient to activate the first step of the urea cycle.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Hepatic ureagenesis is essential in amino acid metabolism and is importantly regulated by glucagon, but the exact mechanism is unclear. With the aim to identify the steps whereby glucagon both acutely and chronically regulates ureagenesis, we here show, contrary to our hypothesis, that glucagon receptor-mediated activation of ureagenesis is not required when N-acetylglutamate synthase activity and/or N-acetylglutamate levels are sufficient to activate the first step of the urea cycle in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine D Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Pedersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Endocrinology and Nephrology, Nordsjaellands Hospital Hilleroed, Hilleroed, Denmark
| | - Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elena Stojanovska
- 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
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cathrine Ørskov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - 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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9
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Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Pedersen J, Galsgaard KD, Winther-Sørensen M, Suppli MP, Janah L, Gromada J, Vilstrup H, Knop FK, Holst JJ. The Liver-α-Cell Axis and Type 2 Diabetes. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:1353-1366. [PMID: 30920583 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Both type 2 diabetes (T2D) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) strongly associate with increasing body mass index, and together these metabolic diseases affect millions of individuals. In patients with T2D, increased secretion of glucagon (hyperglucagonemia) contributes to diabetic hyperglycemia as proven by the significant lowering of fasting plasma glucose levels following glucagon receptor antagonist administration. Emerging data now indicate that the elevated plasma concentrations of glucagon may also be associated with hepatic steatosis and not necessarily with the presence or absence of T2D. Thus, fatty liver disease, most often secondary to overeating, may result in impaired amino acid turnover, leading to increased plasma concentrations of certain glucagonotropic amino acids (e.g., alanine). This, in turn, causes increased glucagon secretion that may help to restore amino acid turnover and ureagenesis, but it may eventually also lead to increased hepatic glucose production, a hallmark of T2D. Early experimental findings support the hypothesis that hepatic steatosis impairs glucagon's actions on amino acid turnover and ureagenesis. Hepatic steatosis also impairs hepatic insulin sensitivity and clearance that, together with hyperglycemia and hyperaminoacidemia, lead to peripheral hyperinsulinemia; systemic hyperinsulinemia may itself contribute to worsen peripheral insulin resistance. Additionally, obesity is accompanied by an impaired incretin effect, causing meal-related glucose intolerance. Lipid-induced impairment of hepatic sensitivity, not only to insulin but potentially also to glucagon, resulting in both hyperinsulinemia and hyperglucagonemia, may therefore contribute to the development of T2D at least in a subset of individuals with NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Pedersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital Hillerød, University of Copenhagen, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Katrine D Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Malte P Suppli
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Lina Janah
- 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
| | | | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, 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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10
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Galsgaard KD, Winther-Sørensen M, Pedersen J, Kjeldsen SAS, Rosenkilde MM, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Holst JJ. Glucose and amino acid metabolism in mice depend mutually on glucagon and insulin receptor signaling. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2019; 316:E660-E673. [PMID: 30807215 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00410.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon and insulin are important regulators of blood glucose. The importance of insulin receptor signaling for alpha-cell secretion and of glucagon receptor signaling for beta-cell secretion is widely discussed and of clinical interest. Amino acids are powerful secretagogues for both hormones, and glucagon controls amino acid metabolism through ureagenesis. The role of insulin in amino acid metabolism is less clear. Female C57BL/6JRj mice received an insulin receptor antagonist (IRA) (S961; 30 nmol/kg), a glucagon receptor antagonist (GRA) (25-2648; 100 mg/kg), or both GRA and IRA (GRA + IRA) 3 h before intravenous administration of similar volumes of saline, glucose (0.5 g/kg), or amino acids (1 µmol/g) while anesthetized with isoflurane. IRA caused basal hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and hyperglucagonemia. Unexpectedly, IRA lowered basal plasma concentrations of amino acids, whereas GRA increased amino acids, lowered glycemia, and increased glucagon but did not influence insulin concentrations. After administration of GRA + IRA, insulin secretion was significantly reduced compared with IRA administration alone. Blood glucose responses to a glucose and amino acid challenge were similar after vehicle and GRA + IRA administration but greater after IRA and lower after GRA. Anesthesia may have influenced the results, which otherwise strongly suggest that both hormones are essential for the maintenance of glucose homeostasis and that the secretion of both is regulated by powerful negative feedback mechanisms. In addition, insulin limits glucagon secretion, while endogenous glucagon stimulates insulin secretion, revealed during lack of insulin autocrine feedback. Finally, glucagon receptor signaling seems to be of greater importance for amino acid metabolism than insulin receptor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine D Galsgaard
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Jens Pedersen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjaellands Hospital Hilleroed, University of Copenhagen, Hilleroed, Denmark
| | - Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Mette M Rosenkilde
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
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11
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Rivero-Gutierrez B, Haller A, Holland J, Yates E, Khrisna R, Habegger K, Dimarchi R, D'Alessio D, Perez-Tilve D. Deletion of the glucagon receptor gene before and after experimental diabetes reveals differential protection from hyperglycemia. Mol Metab 2018; 17:28-38. [PMID: 30170980 PMCID: PMC6197675 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mice with congenital loss of the glucagon receptor gene (Gcgr-/- mice) remain normoglycemic in insulinopenic conditions, suggesting that unopposed glucagon action is the driving force for hyperglycemia in Type-1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). However, chronic loss of GCGR results in a neomorphic phenotype that includes hormonal signals with hypoglycemic activity. We combined temporally-controlled GCGR deletion with pharmacological treatments to dissect the direct contribution of GCGR signaling to glucose control in a common mouse model of T1DM. METHODS We induced experimental T1DM by injecting the beta-cell cytotoxin streptozotocin (STZ) in mice with congenital or temporally-controlled Gcgr loss-of-function using tamoxifen (TMX). RESULTS Disruption of Gcgr expression, using either an inducible approach in adult mice or animals with congenital knockout, abolished the response to a long-acting Gcgr agonist. Mice with either developmental Gcgr disruption or inducible deletion several weeks before STZ treatment maintained normoglycemia. However, mice with inducible knockout of the Gcgr one week after the onset of STZ diabetes had only partial correction of hyperglycemia, an effect that was reversed by GLP-1 receptor blockade. Mice with Gcgr deletion for either 2 or 6 weeks had similar patterns of gene expression, although the changes were generally larger with longer GCGR knockout. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that the effects of glucagon to mitigate diabetic hyperglycemia are not through acute signaling but require compensations that take weeks to develop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belen Rivero-Gutierrez
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2180 E. Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - April Haller
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2180 E. Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jenna Holland
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2180 E. Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Emily Yates
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2180 E. Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Radha Khrisna
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, NC, USA
| | - Kirk Habegger
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center and Department of Medicine - Endocrinology, Diabetes & and Metabolism, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Richard Dimarchi
- Novo Nordisk Research Center Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - David D'Alessio
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, NC, USA
| | - Diego Perez-Tilve
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 2180 E. Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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12
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Zhang Y, Thai K, Jin T, Woo M, Gilbert RE. SIRT1 activation attenuates α cell hyperplasia, hyperglucagonaemia and hyperglycaemia in STZ-diabetic mice. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13972. [PMID: 30228292 PMCID: PMC6143559 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32351-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The NAD+-dependent lysine deacetylase, Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), plays a central role in metabolic regulation. With type 1 diabetes a disease that is characterised by metabolic dysregulation, we sought to assess the impact of SIRT1 activation in experimental, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. CD1 mice with and without STZ-induced diabetes were randomized to receive the SIRT1 activating compound, SRT3025, or vehicle over 20 weeks. Vehicle treated STZ-CD1 mice developed severe hyperglycaemia with near-absent circulating insulin and widespread beta cell loss in association with hyperglucagonaemia and expanded islet alpha cell mass. Without affecting ß-cell mass or circulating insulin, diabetic mice that received SRT3025 had substantially improved glycaemic control with greatly reduced islet α cell mass and lower plasma glucagon concentrations. Consistent with reduced glucagon abundance, the diabetes-associated overexpression of key gluconeogenic enzymes, glucose-6-phosphatase and PEPCK were also lowered by SRT3025. Incubating cultured α cells with SRT3025 diminished their glucagon secretion and proliferative activity in association with a reduction in the α cell associated transcription factor, Aristaless Related Homeobox (Arx). By reducing the paradoxical increase in glucagon, SIRT1 activation may offer a new, α-cell centric approach to the treatment of type 1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Zhang
- St. Michael's Hospital, Keenan Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Kerri Thai
- St. Michael's Hospital, Keenan Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Tianru Jin
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute (TGHRI), Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Minna Woo
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute (TGHRI), Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Richard E Gilbert
- St. Michael's Hospital, Keenan Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, M5B 1W8, Canada.
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13
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Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Glucagon receptor signaling in metabolic diseases. Peptides 2018; 100:42-47. [PMID: 29412830 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon is a peptide hormone secreted from the pancreatic alpha cells in response to hypoglycemia but in some patients with type 2 diabetes a paradoxical hypersecretion results from the intake of glucose. In rodent, antagonizing the actions of glucagon have been shown to be effective for lowering blood glucose levels and this has recently have been solidified in patients with type 2 diabetes. Although the reported increases of liver enzymes, hyperglucagonemia, and alpha cell hyperplasia resulting from glucagon receptor antagonism may potentially limit the clinical applicability of glucagon receptor antagonists, they may serve as an instrumental toolbox for delineating the physiology of glucagon. Agonizing glucagon receptor signaling may be relevant, in particular when combined with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor analogues in the perspective of body weight lowering therapy. Here, we will focus on new conceptual aspects of glucagon biology and how this may led to new diagnostics and treatment of metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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14
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Hædersdal S, Lund A, Knop FK, Vilsbøll T. The Role of Glucagon in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes. Mayo Clin Proc 2018; 93:217-239. [PMID: 29307553 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes is a disease involving both inadequate insulin levels and increased glucagon levels. While glucagon and insulin work together to achieve optimal plasma glucose concentrations in healthy individuals, the usual regulatory balance between these 2 critical pancreatic hormones is awry in patients with diabetes. Although clinical discussion often focuses on the role of insulin, glucagon is equally important in understanding type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, an awareness of the role of glucagon is essential to appreciate differences in the mechanisms of action of various classes of glucose-lowering therapies. Newer drug classes such as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists improve glycemic control, in part, by affecting glucagon levels. This review provides an overview of the effect of glucose-lowering therapies on glucagon on the basis of an extensive PubMed literature search to identify clinical studies of glucose-lowering therapies in type 2 diabetes that included assessment of glucagon. Clinical practice currently benefits from available therapies that impact the glucagon regulatory pathway. As clinicians look to the future, improved treatment strategies are likely to emerge that will either use currently available therapies whose mechanisms of action complement each other or take advantage of new therapies based on an improved understanding of glucagon pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Hædersdal
- Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Asger Lund
- Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tina Vilsbøll
- Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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15
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Galsgaard KD, Winther-Sørensen M, Ørskov C, Kissow H, Poulsen SS, Vilstrup H, Prehn C, Adamski J, Jepsen SL, Hartmann B, Hunt J, Charron MJ, Pedersen J, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Holst JJ. Disruption of glucagon receptor signaling causes hyperaminoacidemia exposing a possible liver-alpha-cell axis. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2018; 314:E93-E103. [PMID: 28978545 PMCID: PMC6048389 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00198.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon secreted from the pancreatic alpha-cells is essential for regulation of blood glucose levels. However, glucagon may play an equally important role in the regulation of amino acid metabolism by promoting ureagenesis. We hypothesized that disruption of glucagon receptor signaling would lead to an increased plasma concentration of amino acids, which in a feedback manner stimulates the secretion of glucagon, eventually associated with compensatory proliferation of the pancreatic alpha-cells. To address this, we performed plasma profiling of glucagon receptor knockout ( Gcgr-/-) mice and wild-type (WT) littermates using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomics, and tissue biopsies from the pancreas were analyzed for islet hormones and by histology. A principal component analysis of the plasma metabolome from Gcgr-/- and WT littermates indicated amino acids as the primary metabolic component distinguishing the two groups of mice. Apart from their hyperaminoacidemia, Gcgr-/- mice display hyperglucagonemia, increased pancreatic content of glucagon and somatostatin (but not insulin), and alpha-cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy compared with WT littermates. Incubating cultured α-TC1.9 cells with a mixture of amino acids (Vamin 1%) for 30 min and for up to 48 h led to increased glucagon concentrations (~6-fold) in the media and cell proliferation (~2-fold), respectively. In anesthetized mice, a glucagon receptor-specific antagonist (Novo Nordisk 25-2648, 100 mg/kg) reduced amino acid clearance. Our data support the notion that glucagon secretion and hepatic amino acid metabolism are linked in a close feedback loop, which operates independently of normal variations in glucose metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine D Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Cathrine Ørskov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Hannelouise Kissow
- 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
| | - Steen S Poulsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital , Aarhus , Denmark
| | - Cornelia Prehn
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, München-Neuerberg, Germany
| | - Jerzy Adamski
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Genome Analysis Center, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, München-Neuerberg, Germany
- Lehrstul für Experimentelle Genetik, Technishe Universität München, Freising- Weihenstephan , Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research, München-Nueherberg, Germany
| | - Sara L Jepsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Bolette Hartmann
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Jenna Hunt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Maureen J Charron
- Departments of Biochemistry, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, and Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine , New York, New York
| | - Jens Pedersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for 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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16
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Grøndahl MF, Keating DJ, Vilsbøll T, Knop FK. Current Therapies That Modify Glucagon Secretion: What Is the Therapeutic Effect of Such Modifications? Curr Diab Rep 2017; 17:128. [PMID: 29080075 DOI: 10.1007/s11892-017-0967-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hyperglucagonemia contributes significantly to hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes and suppressed glucagon levels may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Here, we give a brief overview of glucagon physiology and the role of glucagon in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes and provide insights into how antidiabetic drugs influence glucagon secretion as well as a perspective on the future of glucagon-targeting drugs. RECENT FINDINGS Several older as well as recent investigations have evaluated the effect of antidiabetic agents on glucagon secretion to understand how glucagon may be involved in the drugs' efficacy and safety profiles. Based on these findings, modulation of glucagon secretion seems to play a hitherto underestimated role in the efficacy and safety of several glucose-lowering drugs. Numerous drugs currently available to diabetologists are capable of altering glucagon secretion: metformin, sulfonylurea compounds, insulin, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and amylin mimetics. Their diverse effects on glucagon secretion are of importance for their individual efficacy and safety profiles. Understanding how these drugs interact with glucagon secretion may help to optimize treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus F Grøndahl
- Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Damien J Keating
- Discipline of Human Physiology and Centre for Neuroscience, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
- Nutrition and Metabolism, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tina Vilsbøll
- Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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17
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Scheen AJ, Paquot N, Lefèbvre PJ. Investigational glucagon receptor antagonists in Phase I and II clinical trials for diabetes. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2017; 26:1373-1389. [PMID: 29052441 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2017.1395020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite type 2 diabetes (T2D) being recognized as a bihormonal pancreatic disease, current therapies are mainly focusing on insulin, while targeting glucagon has been long dismissed. However, glucagon receptor (GCGr) antagonists are currently investigated in clinical trials. Area covered: Following a brief description of the rationale for antagonizing GCGr in T2D, lessons from GCGr knock-out mice and pharmacological means to antagonize GCGr, a detailed description of the main results obtained with GCGr antagonists in Phase I-II clinical trials is provided. The development of several small molecules has been discontinued, while new ones are currently considered as well as innovative approaches such as monoclonal antibodies or antisense oligonucleotides inhibiting GCGr gene expression. Their potential benefits but also limitations are discussed. Expert opinion: The proof-of-concept that antagonizing GCGr improves glucose control in T2D has been confirmed in humans. Nevertheless, some adverse events led to stopping the development of some of these GCGr antagonists. New approaches seem to have a better benefit/risk balance, although none has progressed to Phase III clinical trials so far. Pharmacotherapy of T2D is becoming a highly competitive field so that GCGr antagonists should provide clear advantages over numerous existing glucose-lowering medications before eventually reaching clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- André J Scheen
- a Division of Clinical Pharmacology , Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Medicines (CIRM), University of Liège , Belgium.,b Division of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Disorders, Department of Medicine , CHU , Liège , Belgium
| | - Nicolas Paquot
- b Division of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Disorders, Department of Medicine , CHU , Liège , Belgium
| | - Pierre J Lefèbvre
- b Division of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Disorders, Department of Medicine , CHU , Liège , Belgium
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18
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Wang Y, Wang J, Deng Z, Jin J, Jiang H, Meng J, Xu H, Zhao J, Sun G, Qian H. Chronic Osteomyelitis Increases the Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes in Humans and Mice. Int J Biol Sci 2017; 13:1192-1202. [PMID: 29104510 PMCID: PMC5666334 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.21379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: To compare the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) between patients with and without chronic osteomyelitis (COM), both in humans and in mice, and to explore risk factors in COM patients who developed T2DM. Methods: One hundred seven patients with COM and 114 patients without COM were consecutively enrolled and retrospectively analysed. Clinical data concerning the time to develop diabetes, glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, inflammatory factors, mental health and frequency of specialist visits were collected. A mouse model of osteomyelitis was used to verify the presence of impaired glucose metabolism and depression. All data were processed by SPSS. Results: The incidence of T2DM was 2.37-fold higher in patients with COM than in those without. In COM patients, subjects with T2DM (DDM) had higher BMI, less exercise and more frequent visits to specialists than those without (Con). Glucose and lipid metabolism were worse in patients with DDM. Patients with DDM had higher levels of white blood cells (12.9±2.1×109/L vs. 11.7±2.2×109/L, p=0.027), CRP (28.4±4.5 mg/L vs. 22.0±4.8 mg/L, p<0.001), TNF-α (13.5±5.0 pg/mL vs. 9.4±2.6 pg/mL, p= 0.003) and IL-6 (12.9±3.2 pg/mL vs. 9.2±2.7 pg/mL, p<0.001). Significantly increased fasting blood glucose concentrations and impairment of oral glucose tolerance tests were also observed in mice modelling osteomyelitis, which were accompanied by elevated TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Furthermore, the proportion of depression (63.2% vs. 35.2%, p=0.003) and severe anxiety (31.6% vs. 9.1%, p=0.002) were significantly higher in the DDM group. Osteomyelitis mice showed obvious depressive-like behaviours. The levels of TNF-α, IL-6, CRP, BMI, and LDL; lack of exercise; SAS; HAQ; and SF36 assessment were risk factors for the development of T2DM in COM patients. Conclusions: Chronic osteomyelitis increased the incidence of T2DM in both humans and mice. Inflammation, mental illness and lack of exercise were risk factors for the occurrence of T2DM in osteomyelitis. Comprehensive consideration of patient history, including metabolism and mental health, is needed in planning future treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yicun Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhantao Deng
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Center for Translational Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Jiewen Jin
- Center for Translational Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jia Meng
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haidong Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianning Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guojing Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongbo Qian
- Department of Orthopedics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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19
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Gastaldelli A, Gaggini M, DeFronzo R. Glucose kinetics: an update and novel insights into its regulation by glucagon and GLP-1. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2017; 20:300-309. [PMID: 28463898 DOI: 10.1097/mco.0000000000000384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Glucagon and GLP-1 share the same origin (i.e., proglucagon); primarily GLP-1 is generated from intestinal L-cells and glucagon from pancreatic α-cell, but intestinal glucagon and pancreatic GLP-1 secretion is likely. Glucose kinetics are tightly regulated by pancreatic hormones insulin and glucagon, but other hormones, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), also play an important role. The purpose of this review is to describe the recent findings on the mechanisms by which these two hormones regulate glucose kinetics. RECENT FINDINGS Recent findings showed new important mechanisms of action of glucagon and GLP-1 in the regulation of glucose metabolism. Knock out of glucagon receptors protects against hyperglycemia without causing hypoglycemia. GLP-1 not only stimulates insulin secretion, but it has also an independent effect on the liver and inhibits glucose production. Moreover, when coinfused with glucagon, GLP-1 limits the hyperglycemic effects. Both hormones have also central effects on gastric emptying (delayed), intestinal motility (reduced), and satiety (increased). SUMMARY The implications of these findings are very important for the management of type 2 diabetes given that GLP-1 receptor agonist are currently approved for the treatment of hyperglycemia and glucagon receptor antagonists and GLP-1/glucagon dual agonists are under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Gastaldelli
- aCardiometabolic Risk Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy bUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX, USA
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20
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Mani BK, Uchida A, Lee Y, Osborne-Lawrence S, Charron MJ, Unger RH, Berglund ED, Zigman JM. Hypoglycemic Effect of Combined Ghrelin and Glucagon Receptor Blockade. Diabetes 2017; 66:1847-1857. [PMID: 28487437 PMCID: PMC5482080 DOI: 10.2337/db16-1303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon receptor (GcgR) blockade has been proposed as an alternative to insulin monotherapy for treating type 1 diabetes since deletion or inhibition of GcgRs corrects hyperglycemia in models of diabetes. The factors regulating glycemia in a setting devoid of insulin and glucagon function remain unclear but may include the hormone ghrelin. Not only is ghrelin release controlled by glucose but also ghrelin has many actions that can raise or reduce falls in blood glucose level. Here, we tested the hypothesis that ghrelin rises to prevent hypoglycemia in the absence of glucagon function. Both GcgR knockout (Gcgr-/-) mice and db/db mice that were administered GcgR monoclonal antibody displayed lower blood glucose levels accompanied by elevated plasma ghrelin levels. Although treatment with the pancreatic β-cell toxin streptozotocin induced hyperglycemia and raised plasma ghrelin levels in wild-type mice, hyperglycemia was averted in similarly treated Gcgr-/- mice and the plasma ghrelin level was further increased. Notably, administration of a ghrelin receptor antagonist further reduced blood glucose levels into the markedly hypoglycemic range in overnight-fasted, streptozotocin-treated Gcgr-/- mice. A lowered blood glucose level also was observed in overnight-fasted, streptozotocin-treated ghrelin receptor-null mice that were administered GcgR monoclonal antibody. These data suggest that when glucagon activity is blocked in the setting of type 1 diabetes, the plasma ghrelin level rises, preventing hypoglycemia.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/pharmacology
- Atenolol/pharmacology
- Blood Glucose/drug effects
- Blood Glucose/metabolism
- Cells, Cultured
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/genetics
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/genetics
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/metabolism
- Gastric Mucosa/metabolism
- Ghrelin/metabolism
- Immunohistochemistry
- Insulin/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Oligopeptides/pharmacology
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Receptors, Ghrelin/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Glucagon/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Glucagon/genetics
- Receptors, Leptin/genetics
- Sympatholytics/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharath K Mani
- Divisions of Hypothalamic Research and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Aki Uchida
- Advanced Imaging Center and Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Young Lee
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Sherri Osborne-Lawrence
- Divisions of Hypothalamic Research and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Maureen J Charron
- Departments of Biochemistry, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Woman's Health, and Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Roger H Unger
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Eric D Berglund
- Advanced Imaging Center and Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jeffrey M Zigman
- Divisions of Hypothalamic Research and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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21
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Neumann UH, Ho JSS, Chen S, Tam YYC, Cullis PR, Kieffer TJ. Lipid nanoparticle delivery of glucagon receptor siRNA improves glucose homeostasis in mouse models of diabetes. Mol Metab 2017; 6:1161-1172. [PMID: 29031717 PMCID: PMC5641600 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 06/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Hyperglucagonemia is present in many forms of diabetes and contributes to hyperglycemia, and glucagon suppression can ameliorate diabetes in mice. Leptin, a glucagon suppressor, can also reverse diabetes in rodents. Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) effectively targets the liver and is in clinical trials for the treatment of various diseases. We compared the effectiveness of glucagon receptor (Gcgr)-siRNA delivered via LNPs to leptin in two mouse models of diabetes. Methods Gcgr siRNA encapsulated into LNPs or leptin was administered to mice with diabetes due to injection of the β-cell toxin streptozotocin (STZ) alone or combined with high fat diet (HFD/STZ). Results In STZ-diabetic mice, a single injection of Gcgr siRNA lowered blood glucose levels for 3 weeks, improved glucose tolerance, and normalized plasma ketones levels, while leptin therapy normalized blood glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance, and plasma ketones, and suppressed lipid metabolism. In contrast, in HFD/STZ-diabetic mice, Gcgr siRNA lowered blood glucose levels for 2 months, improved oral glucose tolerance, and reduced HbA1c, while leptin had no beneficial effects. Conclusions While leptin may be more effective than Gcgr siRNA at normalizing both glucose and lipid metabolism in STZ diabetes, Gcgr siRNA is more effective at reducing blood glucose levels in HFD/STZ diabetes. Gcgr siRNA improves glucose metabolism but not lipid metabolism in STZ diabetic mice. Leptin improves both glucose and lipid metabolism in STZ diabetic mice. Gcgr siRNA improves glucose metabolism in HFD/STZ diabetic mice. Leptin does not improve glucose metabolism in HFD/STZ diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula H Neumann
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jessica S S Ho
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Sam Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Yuen Yi C Tam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Timothy J Kieffer
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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22
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D'souza AM, Neumann UH, Glavas MM, Kieffer TJ. The glucoregulatory actions of leptin. Mol Metab 2017; 6:1052-1065. [PMID: 28951828 PMCID: PMC5605734 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2017.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The hormone leptin is an important regulator of metabolic homeostasis, able to inhibit food intake and increase energy expenditure. Leptin can also independently lower blood glucose levels, particularly in hyperglycemic models of leptin or insulin deficiency. Despite significant efforts and relevance to diabetes, the mechanisms by which leptin acts to regulate blood glucose levels are not fully understood. Scope of review Here we assess literature relevant to the glucose lowering effects of leptin. Leptin receptors are widely expressed in multiple cell types, and we describe both peripheral and central effects of leptin that may be involved in lowering blood glucose. In addition, we summarize the potential clinical application of leptin in regulating glucose homeostasis. Major conclusions Leptin exerts a plethora of metabolic effects on various tissues including suppressing production of glucagon and corticosterone, increasing glucose uptake, and inhibiting hepatic glucose output. A more in-depth understanding of the mechanisms of the glucose-lowering actions of leptin may reveal new strategies to treat metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M D'souza
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Ursula H Neumann
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Maria M Glavas
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Timothy J Kieffer
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.,Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
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23
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Holst JJ, Holland W, Gromada J, Lee Y, Unger RH, Yan H, Sloop KW, Kieffer TJ, Damond N, Herrera PL. Insulin and Glucagon: Partners for Life. Endocrinology 2017; 158:696-701. [PMID: 28323959 PMCID: PMC6061217 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In August 2016, several leaders in glucagon biology gathered for the European Association for the Study of Diabetes Hagedorn Workshop in Oxford, England. A key point of discussion focused on the need for basal insulin to allow for the therapeutic benefit of glucagon blockade in the treatment of diabetes. Among the most enlightening experimental results presented were findings from studies in which glucagon receptor-deficient mice were administered streptozotocin to destroy pancreatic β cells or had undergone diphtheria toxin-induced β cell ablation. This article summarizes key features of the discussion as a consensus was reached. Agents that antagonize glucagon may be of great benefit for the treatment of diabetes; however, sufficient levels of basal insulin are required for their therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Juul Holst
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - William Holland
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | | | - Young Lee
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Roger H Unger
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Hai Yan
- REMD Biotherapeutics Inc., Camarillo, California
| | - Kyle W Sloop
- Endocrine Discovery, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Timothy J Kieffer
- Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicolas Damond
- Department of Genetic Medicine & Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Pedro L Herrera
- Department of Genetic Medicine & Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
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24
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Asghar ZA, Cusumano A, Yan Z, Remedi MS, Moley KH. Reduced islet function contributes to impaired glucose homeostasis in fructose-fed mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2017; 312:E109-E116. [PMID: 28028036 PMCID: PMC5336566 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00279.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Increased sugar consumption, particularly fructose, in the form of sweetened beverages and sweeteners in our diet adversely affects metabolic health. Because these effects are associated with features of the metabolic syndrome in humans, the direct effect of fructose on pancreatic islet function is unknown. Therefore, we examined the islet phenotype of mice fed excess fructose. Fructose-fed mice exhibited fasting hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance but not hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, or hyperuricemia. Islet function was impaired, with decreased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and increased glucagon secretion and high fructose consumption leading to α-cell proliferation and upregulation of the fructose transporter GLUT5, which was localized only in α-cells. Our studies demonstrate that excess fructose consumption contributes to hyperglycemia by affecting both β- and α-cells of islets in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeenat A Asghar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; and
| | - Andrew Cusumano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; and
| | - Zihan Yan
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Maria S Remedi
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kelle H Moley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; and
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25
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Glucagon receptor inhibition normalizes blood glucose in severe insulin-resistant mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:2753-2758. [PMID: 28115707 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1621069114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inactivating mutations in the insulin receptor results in extreme insulin resistance. The resulting hyperglycemia is very difficult to treat, and patients are at risk for early morbidity and mortality from complications of diabetes. We used the insulin receptor antagonist S961 to induce severe insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and ketonemia in mice. Using this model, we show that glucagon receptor (GCGR) inhibition with a monoclonal antibody normalized blood glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate levels. Insulin receptor antagonism increased pancreatic β-cell mass threefold. Normalization of blood glucose levels with GCGR-blocking antibody unexpectedly doubled β-cell mass relative to that observed with S961 alone and 5.8-fold over control. GCGR antibody blockage expanded α-cell mass 5.7-fold, and S961 had no additional effects. Collectively, these data show that GCGR antibody inhibition represents a potential therapeutic option for treatment of patients with extreme insulin-resistance syndromes.
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26
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Prasadan K, Shiota C, Xiangwei X, Ricks D, Fusco J, Gittes G. A synopsis of factors regulating beta cell development and beta cell mass. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:3623-37. [PMID: 27105622 PMCID: PMC5002366 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2231-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-secreting beta cells in the endocrine pancreas regulate blood glucose levels, and loss of functional beta cells leads to insulin deficiency, hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) and diabetes mellitus. Current treatment strategies for type-1 (autoimmune) diabetes are islet transplantation, which has significant risks and limitations, or normalization of blood glucose with insulin injections, which is clearly not ideal. The type-1 patients can lack insulin counter-regulatory mechanism; therefore, hypoglycemia is a potential risk. Hence, a cell-based therapy offers a better alternative for the treatment of diabetes. Past research was focused on attempting to generate replacement beta cells from stem cells; however, recently there has been an increasing interest in identifying mechanisms that will lead to the conversion of pre-existing differentiated endocrine cells into beta cells. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of several of the key factors that regulate new beta cell formation (neogenesis) and beta cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Prasadan
- Rangos Research Center, Children's Hospital of University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - Chiyo Shiota
- Rangos Research Center, Children's Hospital of University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - Xiao Xiangwei
- Rangos Research Center, Children's Hospital of University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - David Ricks
- Rangos Research Center, Children's Hospital of University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - Joseph Fusco
- Rangos Research Center, Children's Hospital of University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - George Gittes
- Rangos Research Center, Children's Hospital of University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA.
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27
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Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Kuhre RE, Pedersen J, Knop FK, Holst JJ. The biology of glucagon and the consequences of hyperglucagonemia. Biomark Med 2016; 10:1141-1151. [PMID: 27611762 DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2016-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The proglucagon-derived peptide hormone, glucagon, comprises 29 amino acids. Its secretion from the pancreatic α cells is regulated by several factors. Glucagon increases blood glucose levels through gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. Elevated plasma concentrations of glucagon, hyperglucagonemia, may contribute to diabetes. However, hyperglucagonemia is also observed in other clinical conditions than diabetes, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, glucagon-producing tumors and after gastric bypass surgery. Here, we review the current literature on hyperglucagonemia in disease with a particular focus on diabetes, and finally speculate that the primary physiological importance of glucagon may not reside in glucose homeostasis but in regulation of amino acid metabolism exerted via a hitherto unrecognized hepato-pancreatic feedback loop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rune E Kuhre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Pedersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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28
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Iida A, Seino Y, Fukami A, Maekawa R, Yabe D, Shimizu S, Kinoshita K, Takagi Y, Izumoto T, Ogata H, Ishikawa K, Ozaki N, Tsunekawa S, Hamada Y, Oiso Y, Arima H, Hayashi Y. Endogenous GIP ameliorates impairment of insulin secretion in proglucagon-deficient mice under moderate beta cell damage induced by streptozotocin. Diabetologia 2016; 59:1533-1541. [PMID: 27053237 PMCID: PMC4901104 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-016-3935-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS The action of incretin hormones including glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is potentiated in animal models defective in glucagon action. It has been reported that such animal models maintain normoglycaemia under streptozotocin (STZ)-induced beta cell damage. However, the role of GIP in regulation of glucose metabolism under a combination of glucagon deficiency and STZ-induced beta cell damage has not been fully explored. METHODS In this study, we investigated glucose metabolism in mice deficient in proglucagon-derived peptides (PGDPs)-namely glucagon gene knockout (GcgKO) mice-administered with STZ. Single high-dose STZ (200 mg/kg, hSTZ) or moderate-dose STZ for five consecutive days (50 mg/kg × 5, mSTZ) was administered to GcgKO mice. The contribution of GIP to glucose metabolism in GcgKO mice was also investigated by experiments employing dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP4) inhibitor (DPP4i) or Gcg-Gipr double knockout (DKO) mice. RESULTS GcgKO mice developed severe diabetes by hSTZ administration despite the absence of glucagon. Administration of mSTZ decreased pancreatic insulin content to 18.8 ± 3.4 (%) in GcgKO mice, but ad libitum-fed blood glucose levels did not significantly increase. Glucose-induced insulin secretion was marginally impaired in mSTZ-treated GcgKO mice but was abolished in mSTZ-treated DKO mice. Although GcgKO mice lack GLP-1, treatment with DPP4i potentiated glucose-induced insulin secretion and ameliorated glucose intolerance in mSTZ-treated GcgKO mice, but did not increase beta cell area or significantly reduce apoptotic cells in islets. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION These results indicate that GIP has the potential to ameliorate glucose intolerance even under STZ-induced beta cell damage by increasing insulin secretion rather than by promoting beta cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Iida
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Yusuke Seino
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan.
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Ayako Fukami
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Ryuya Maekawa
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Daisuke Yabe
- Yutaka Seino Distinguished Center for Diabetes Research, Kansai Electric Power Medical Research Institute, Kobe, Japan
- Division of Molecular and Metabolic Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shinobu Shimizu
- Yutaka Seino Distinguished Center for Diabetes Research, Kansai Electric Power Medical Research Institute, Kobe, Japan
| | - Keita Kinoshita
- Research Center of Health, Physical Fitness and Sports, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Genetics, Division of Stress Adaptation and Recognition, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 4648601, Japan
| | - Yusuke Takagi
- Research Center of Health, Physical Fitness and Sports, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Genetics, Division of Stress Adaptation and Recognition, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 4648601, Japan
| | - Takako Izumoto
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hidetada Ogata
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Kota Ishikawa
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Ozaki
- Research Center of Health, Physical Fitness and Sports, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shin Tsunekawa
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Yoji Hamada
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yutaka Oiso
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Arima
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 4668550, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Hayashi
- Department of Genetics, Division of Stress Adaptation and Recognition, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 4648601, Japan.
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Neumann UH, Ho JSS, Mojibian M, Covey SD, Charron MJ, Kieffer TJ. Glucagon receptor gene deletion in insulin knockout mice modestly reduces blood glucose and ketones but does not promote survival. Mol Metab 2016; 5:731-736. [PMID: 27656411 PMCID: PMC5021664 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2016.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It has been thought that the depletion of insulin is responsible for the catabolic consequences of diabetes; however, evidence suggests that glucagon also plays a role in diabetes pathogenesis. Glucagon suppression by glucagon receptor (Gcgr) gene deletion, glucagon immunoneutralization, or Gcgr antagonist can reverse or prevent type 1 diabetes in rodents suggesting that dysregulated glucagon is also required for development of diabetic symptoms. However, the models used in these studies were rendered diabetic by chemical- or immune-mediated β-cell destruction, in which insulin depletion is incomplete. Therefore, it is unclear whether glucagon suppression could overcome the consequence of the complete lack of insulin. METHODS To directly test this we characterized mice that lack the Gcgr and both insulin genes (GcgrKO/InsKO). RESULTS In both P1 pups and mice that were kept alive to young adulthood using insulin therapy, blood glucose and plasma ketones were modestly normalized; however, mice survived for only up to 6 days, similar to GcgrHet/InsKO controls. In addition, Gcgr gene deletion was unable to normalize plasma leptin levels, triglycerides, fatty acids, or hepatic cholesterol accumulation compared to GcgrHet/InsKO controls. CONCLUSION Therefore, the metabolic manifestations associated with a complete lack of insulin cannot be overcome by glucagon receptor gene inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula H Neumann
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Jessica S S Ho
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Majid Mojibian
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Scott D Covey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Maureen J Charron
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
| | - Timothy J Kieffer
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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30
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Abstract
The hormones insulin and glucagon both play important roles in the development of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Eliasson
- Unit of Islet Cell Exocytosis, Lund University Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Anna Wendt
- Unit of Islet Cell Exocytosis, Lund University Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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31
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Gylfe E. Glucose control of glucagon secretion-'There's a brand-new gimmick every year'. Ups J Med Sci 2016; 121:120-32. [PMID: 27044660 PMCID: PMC4900067 DOI: 10.3109/03009734.2016.1154905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucagon from the pancreatic α-cells is a major blood glucose-regulating hormone whose most important role is to prevent hypoglycaemia that can be life-threatening due to the brain's strong dependence on glucose as energy source. Lack of blood glucose-lowering insulin after malfunction or autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic β-cells is the recognized cause of diabetes, but recent evidence indicates that diabetic hyperglycaemia would not develop unless lack of insulin was accompanied by hypersecretion of glucagon. Glucagon release has therefore become an increasingly important target in diabetes management. Despite decades of research, an understanding of how glucagon secretion is regulated remains elusive, and fundamentally different mechanisms continue to be proposed. The autonomous nervous system is an important determinant of glucagon release, but it is clear that secretion is also directly regulated within the pancreatic islets. The present review focuses on pancreatic islet mechanisms involved in glucose regulation of glucagon release. It will be argued that α-cell-intrinsic processes are most important for regulation of glucagon release during recovery from hypoglycaemia and that paracrine inhibition by somatostatin from the δ-cells shapes pulsatile glucagon release in hyperglycaemia. The electrically coupled β-cells ultimately determine islet hormone pulsatility by releasing synchronizing factors that affect the α- and δ-cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Gylfe
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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32
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Damond N, Thorel F, Moyers JS, Charron MJ, Vuguin PM, Powers AC, Herrera PL. Blockade of glucagon signaling prevents or reverses diabetes onset only if residual β-cells persist. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 27092792 PMCID: PMC4871705 DOI: 10.7554/elife.13828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucagon secretion dysregulation in diabetes fosters hyperglycemia. Recent studies report that mice lacking glucagon receptor (Gcgr-/-) do not develop diabetes following streptozotocin (STZ)-mediated ablation of insulin-producing β-cells. Here, we show that diabetes prevention in STZ-treated Gcgr-/- animals requires remnant insulin action originating from spared residual β-cells: these mice indeed became hyperglycemic after insulin receptor blockade. Accordingly, Gcgr-/- mice developed hyperglycemia after induction of a more complete, diphtheria toxin (DT)-induced β-cell loss, a situation of near-absolute insulin deficiency similar to type 1 diabetes. In addition, glucagon deficiency did not impair the natural capacity of α-cells to reprogram into insulin production after extreme β-cell loss. α-to-β-cell conversion was improved in Gcgr-/- mice as a consequence of α-cell hyperplasia. Collectively, these results indicate that glucagon antagonism could i) be a useful adjuvant therapy in diabetes only when residual insulin action persists, and ii) help devising future β-cell regeneration therapies relying upon α-cell reprogramming. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.13828.001 After meals, digested food causes sugar to accumulate in the blood. This triggers the release of the hormone insulin from beta cells in the pancreas, which allows liver cells, muscle cells and fat cells to use and store the sugar for energy. Other cells in the pancreas, called alpha cells, release a hormone called glucagon that counteracts the effects of insulin by telling the liver to release sugar into the bloodstream. The balance between the activity of insulin and glucagon keeps blood sugar levels steady. Diabetes results from the body being unable to produce enough insulin or respond to the insulin that is produced, which results in sugar accumulating in the blood. Diabetes also increases the production of glucagon, which further increases blood sugar levels. Recently, some researchers have reported that mice that lack the receptor proteins through which glucagon works do not develop diabetes, even when they are treated with a drug called streptozotocin that wipes out most of their beta cells. This suggests that the high blood sugar levels seen in diabetes result from an excess of glucagon, and not a lack of insulin. Drugs that block the action of glucagon have been found to reduce the symptoms of mild diabetes in mice and are now being tested in humans. However, it is less clear whether this treatment has any benefits in animals with more severe diabetes. Streptozotocin destroys most of a mouse’s beta cells but a significant fraction of them persist, while a different system relying on diphtheria toxin destroys more than 99% of these cells. Damond et al. have now found that treating mice that lack glucagon receptors with diphtheria toxin causes the mice to develop severe diabetes. Mice that lacked glucagon receptors that had been treated with streptozotocin also developed diabetes after they had been treated with an insulin-blocking drug. Further experiments showed that blocking glucagon receptors in typical mice with diabetes reduces blood sugar, but only if there is some insulin left in their bodies. Damond et al. also found that the glucagon receptor-lacking mice have more alpha cells, which have the ability to convert into insulin-producing cells after the widespread destruction of beta cells. Together, the experiments suggest that blocking glucagon could be a useful treatment for diabetes, but only in individuals who still have some insulin-producing cells. Such treatment would help reduce the release of sugar from the liver and increase the production of insulin in converted alpha cells in the pancreas. Damond et al. are now investigating how alpha cells convert into beta cells, with the aim of learning how to make beta cells regenerate more efficiently. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.13828.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Damond
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Centre facultaire du diabète, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fabrizio Thorel
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Centre facultaire du diabète, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julie S Moyers
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, United States
| | - Maureen J Charron
- Departments of Biochemistry, Medicine, and Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, United States
| | - Patricia M Vuguin
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Women's and Childrens Health, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, United States
| | - Alvin C Powers
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Department of Molecular Physiology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States.,VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, United States
| | - Pedro L Herrera
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Centre facultaire du diabète, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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