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Kajani S, Laker RC, Ratkova E, Will S, Rhodes CJ. Hepatic glucagon action: beyond glucose mobilization. Physiol Rev 2024; 104:1021-1060. [PMID: 38300523 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00028.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucagon's ability to promote hepatic glucose production has been known for over a century, with initial observations touting this hormone as a diabetogenic agent. However, glucagon receptor agonism [when balanced with an incretin, including glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) to dampen glucose excursions] is now being developed as a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of metabolic diseases, like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic disease/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASLD/MASH), and may also have benefit for obesity and chronic kidney disease. Conventionally regarded as the opposing tag-team partner of the anabolic mediator insulin, glucagon is gradually emerging as more than just a "catabolic hormone." Glucagon action on glucose homeostasis within the liver has been well characterized. However, growing evidence, in part thanks to new and sensitive "omics" technologies, has implicated glucagon as more than just a "glucose liberator." Elucidation of glucagon's capacity to increase fatty acid oxidation while attenuating endogenous lipid synthesis speaks to the dichotomous nature of the hormone. Furthermore, glucagon action is not limited to just glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism, as traditionally reported. Glucagon plays key regulatory roles in hepatic amino acid and ketone body metabolism, as well as mitochondrial turnover and function, indicating broader glucagon signaling consequences for metabolic homeostasis mediated by the liver. Here we examine the broadening role of glucagon signaling within the hepatocyte and question the current dogma, to appreciate glucagon as more than just that "catabolic hormone."
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarina Kajani
- Early Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, Biopharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States
| | - Rhianna C Laker
- Early Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, Biopharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States
| | - Ekaterina Ratkova
- Early Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, Biopharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Sarah Will
- Early Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, Biopharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States
| | - Christopher J Rhodes
- Early Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, Biopharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States
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2
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Kang Q, Jia J, Dean ED, Yuan H, Dai C, Li Z, Jiang F, Zhang XK, Powers AC, Chen W, Li M. ErbB3 is required for hyperaminoacidemia-induced pancreatic α cell hyperplasia. J Biol Chem 2024:107499. [PMID: 38944125 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood amino acid levels are maintained in a narrow physiological range. The pancreatic α cells have emerged as the primary aminoacidemia regulator through glucagon secretion to promote hepatic amino acid catabolism. Interruption of glucagon signaling disrupts the liver - α cells axis leading to hyperaminoacidemia, which triggers a compensatory rise in glucagon secretion and α cell hyperplasia. The mechanisms of hyperaminoacidemia-induced α cell hyperplasia remain incompletely understood. Using a mouse α cell line and in vivo studies in zebrafish and mice, we found that hyperaminoacidemia-induced α cell hyperplasia requires ErbB3 signaling. In addition to mTORC1, another ErbB3 downstream effector STAT3 also plays a role in α cell hyperplasia. Mechanistically, ErbB3 may partner with ErbB2 to stimulate cyclin D2 and suppress p27 via mTORC1 and STAT3. Our study identifies ErbB3 as a new regulator for hyperaminoacidemia-induced α cell proliferation and a critical component of the liver-α cells axis that regulates aminoacidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Kang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jianxin Jia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - E Danielle Dean
- Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232
| | - Hang Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Chunhua Dai
- Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232
| | - Zhehui Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Fuquan Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xiao-Kun Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Alvin C Powers
- Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232
| | - Wenbiao Chen
- Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232.
| | - Mingyu Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
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3
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Winther-Sørensen M, Garcia SL, Bartholdy A, Ottenheijm ME, Banasik K, Brunak S, Sørensen CM, Gluud LL, Knop FK, Holst JJ, Rosenkilde MM, Jensen MK, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Determinants of plasma levels of proglucagon and the metabolic impact of glucagon receptor signalling: a UK Biobank study. Diabetologia 2024:10.1007/s00125-024-06160-1. [PMID: 38705923 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-024-06160-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESES Glucagon and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) are derived from the same precursor; proglucagon, and dual agonists of their receptors are currently being explored for the treatment of obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Elevated levels of endogenous glucagon (hyperglucagonaemia) have been linked with hyperglycaemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes but are also observed in individuals with obesity and MASLD. GLP-1 levels have been reported to be largely unaffected or even reduced in similar conditions. We investigated potential determinants of plasma proglucagon and associations of glucagon receptor signalling with metabolic diseases based on data from the UK Biobank. METHODS We used exome sequencing data from the UK Biobank for ~410,000 white participants to identify glucagon receptor variants and grouped them based on their known or predicted signalling. Data on plasma levels of proglucagon estimated using Olink technology were available for a subset of the cohort (~40,000). We determined associations of glucagon receptor variants and proglucagon with BMI, type 2 diabetes and liver fat (quantified by liver MRI) and performed survival analyses to investigate if elevated proglucagon predicts type 2 diabetes development. RESULTS Obesity, MASLD and type 2 diabetes were associated with elevated plasma levels of proglucagon independently of each other. Baseline proglucagon levels were associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes development over a 14 year follow-up period (HR 1.13; 95% CI 1.09, 1.17; n=1562; p=1.3×10-12). This association was of the same magnitude across strata of BMI. Carriers of glucagon receptor variants with reduced cAMP signalling had elevated levels of proglucagon (β 0.847; 95% CI 0.04, 1.66; n=17; p=0.04), and carriers of variants with a predicted frameshift mutation had higher levels of liver fat compared with the wild-type reference group (β 0.504; 95% CI 0.03, 0.98; n=11; p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Our findings support the suggestion that glucagon receptor signalling is involved in MASLD, that plasma levels of proglucagon are linked to the risk of type 2 diabetes development, and that proglucagon levels are influenced by genetic variation in the glucagon receptor, obesity, type 2 diabetes and MASLD. Determining the molecular signalling pathways downstream of glucagon receptor activation may guide the development of biased GLP-1/glucagon co-agonist with improved metabolic benefits. DATA AVAILABILITY All coding is available through https://github.com/nicwin98/UK-Biobank-GCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara L Garcia
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Bartholdy
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maud E Ottenheijm
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karina Banasik
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Brunak
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charlotte M Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette M Rosenkilde
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Majken K Jensen
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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4
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Coate KC, Ramnanan CJ, Smith M, Winnick JJ, Kraft G, Irimia-Dominguez J, Farmer B, Donahue EP, Roach PJ, Cherrington AD, Edgerton DS. Integration of metabolic flux with hepatic glucagon signaling and gene expression profiles in the conscious dog. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2024; 326:E428-E442. [PMID: 38324258 PMCID: PMC11193521 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00316.2023] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Glucagon rapidly and profoundly stimulates hepatic glucose production (HGP), but for reasons that are unclear, this effect normally wanes after a few hours, despite sustained plasma glucagon levels. This study characterized the time course of glucagon-mediated molecular events and their relevance to metabolic flux in the livers of conscious dogs. Glucagon was either infused into the hepato-portal vein at a sixfold basal rate in the presence of somatostatin and basal insulin, or it was maintained at a basal level in control studies. In one control group, glucose remained at basal, whereas in the other, glucose was infused to match the hyperglycemia that occurred in the hyperglucagonemic group. Elevated glucagon caused a rapid (30 min) and largely sustained increase in hepatic cAMP over 4 h, a continued elevation in glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), and activation and deactivation of glycogen phosphorylase and synthase activities, respectively. Net hepatic glycogenolysis increased rapidly, peaking at 15 min due to activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway, then slowly returned to baseline over the next 3 h in line with allosteric inhibition by glucose and G6P. Glucagon's stimulatory effect on HGP was sustained relative to the hyperglycemic control group due to continued PKA activation. Hepatic gluconeogenic flux did not increase due to the lack of glucagon's effect on substrate supply to the liver. Global gene expression profiling highlighted glucagon-regulated activation of genes involved in cellular respiration, metabolic processes, and signaling, as well as downregulation of genes involved in extracellular matrix assembly and development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Glucagon rapidly stimulates hepatic glucose production, but these effects are transient. This study links the molecular and metabolic flux changes that occur in the liver over time in response to a rise in glucagon, demonstrating the strength of the dog as a translational model to couple findings in small animals and humans. In addition, this study clarifies why the rapid effects of glucagon on liver glycogen metabolism are not sustained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie C Coate
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Christopher J Ramnanan
- Department of Innovation in Medical Education, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marta Smith
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Jason J Winnick
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
| | - Guillaume Kraft
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Jose Irimia-Dominguez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, California, United States
| | - Ben Farmer
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - E Patrick Donahue
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Peter J Roach
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
| | - Alan D Cherrington
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Dale S Edgerton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
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Suppli MP, Høgedal A, Bagger JI, Chabanova E, van Hall G, Forman JL, Christensen MB, Albrechtsen NJW, Holst JJ, Knop FK. Signs of Glucagon Resistance After a 2-Week Hypercaloric Diet Intervention. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:955-967. [PMID: 37967235 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hyperglucagonemia is observed in individuals with obesity and contributes to the hyperglycemia of patients with type 2 diabetes. Hyperglucagonemia may develop due to steatosis-induced hepatic glucagon resistance resulting in impaired hepatic amino acid turnover and ensuing elevations of circulating glucagonotropic amino acids. OBJECTIVE We evaluated whether glucagon resistance could be induced in healthy individuals by a hypercaloric diet intervention designed to increase hepatic fat content. METHODS We recruited 20 healthy male individuals to follow a hypercaloric diet and a sedentary lifestyle for 2 weeks. Amino acid concentrations in response to infusion of glucagon were assessed during a pancreatic clamp with somatostatin and basal insulin. The reversibility of any metabolic changes was assessed 8 weeks after the intervention. Hepatic steatosis was assessed by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. RESULTS The intervention led to increased hepatic fat content (382% [206%; 705%], P < .01). Glucagon infusion led to a decrease in the concentration of total amino acids on all experimental days, but the percentage change in total amino acids was reduced (-2.5% ± 0.5% vs -0.2% ± 0.7%, P = .015) and the average slope of the decline in the total amino acid concentration was less steep (-2.0 ± 1.2 vs -1.2 ± 0.3 μM/min, P = .016) after the intervention compared to baseline. The changes were normalized at follow-up. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that short-term unhealthy behavior, which increases hepatic fat content, causes a reversible resistance to the effect of glucagon on amino acid concentrations in healthy individuals, which may explain the hyperglucagonemia associated with obesity and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malte Palm Suppli
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2900 Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Astrid Høgedal
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2900 Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Jonatan Ising Bagger
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2900 Hellerup, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Elizaveta Chabanova
- Department of Radiology, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Gerrit van Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Clinical Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julie Lyng Forman
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, DK-1353 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Bring Christensen
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2900 Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen Center for Translational Research, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai Jacob Wewer Albrechtsen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Juul Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip Krag Knop
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2900 Hellerup, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Yang Y, Wang S, Sheng C, Tan J, Chen J, Li T, Ma X, Sun H, Wang X, Zhou L. Branched-chain amino acid catabolic defect promotes α-cell proliferation via activating mTOR signaling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 582:112143. [PMID: 38158148 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Elevated circulating level of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) is closely related to the development of type 2 diabetes. However, the role of BCAA catabolism in various tissues in maintaining glucose homeostasis remains largely unknown. Pancreatic α-cells have been regarded as amino acid sensors in recent years. Therefore, we generated α-cell specific branched-chain alpha-ketoacid dehydrogenase E1α subunit (BCKDHA) knockout (BCKDHA-αKO) mice to decipher the effects of BCAA catabolism in α-cells on whole-body energy metabolism. BCKDHA-αKO mice showed normal body weight, body fat, and energy expenditure. Plasma glucagon level and glucose metabolism also remained unchanged in BCKDHA-αKO mice. Whereas, the deletion of BCKDHA led to increased α-cell number due to elevated cell proliferation in neonatal mice. In vitro, only leucine among BCAAs promoted aTC1-6 cell proliferation, which was blocked by the agonist of BCAA catabolism BT2 and the inhibitor of mTOR Rapamycin. Like Rapamycin, BT2 attenuated leucine-stimulated phosphorylation of S6 in αTC1-6 cells. Elevated phosphorylation level of S6 protein in pancreatic α-cells was also observed in BCKDHA-αKO mice. These results suggest that local accumulated leucine due to defective BCAA catabolism promotes α-cell proliferation through mTOR signaling, which is insufficient to affect glucagon secretion and whole-body glucose homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Yang
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shushu Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunxiang Sheng
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jialin Tan
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junmin Chen
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianjiao Li
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqin Ma
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haipeng Sun
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital & Tianjin Institute of Endocrinology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Libin Zhou
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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7
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Asadi F, Gunawardana SC, Dolle RE, Piston DW. An orally available compound suppresses glucagon hypersecretion and normalizes hyperglycemia in type 1 diabetes. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e172626. [PMID: 38258903 PMCID: PMC10906223 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172626] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Suppression of glucagon hypersecretion can normalize hyperglycemia during type 1 diabetes (T1D). Activating erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular receptor type-A4 (EphA4) on α cells reduced glucagon hypersecretion from dispersed α cells and T1D islets from both human donor and mouse models. We synthesized a high-affinity small molecule agonist for the EphA4 receptor, WCDD301, which showed robust plasma and liver microsome metabolic stability in both mouse and human preparations. In islets and dispersed islet cells from nondiabetic and T1D human donors, WCDD301 reduced glucagon secretion comparable to the natural EphA4 ligand, Ephrin-A5. In diabetic NOD and streptozotocin-treated mice, once-daily oral administration of WCDD301 formulated with a time-release excipient reduced plasma glucagon and normalized blood glucose for more than 3 months. These results suggest that targeting the α cell EphA4 receptor by sustained release of WCDD301 is a promising pharmacologic pathway for normalizing hyperglycemia in patients with T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Roland E. Dolle
- Center for Drug Discovery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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8
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Welch AA, Farahani RA, Egan AM, Laurenti MC, Zeini M, Vella M, Bailey KR, Cobelli C, Dalla Man C, Matveyenko A, Vella A. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor blockade impairs islet secretion and glucose metabolism in humans. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e173495. [PMID: 37751301 PMCID: PMC10645389 DOI: 10.1172/jci173495] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDProglucagon can be processed to glucagon-like peptide1 (GLP-1) within the islet, but its contribution to islet function in humans remains unknown. We sought to understand whether pancreatic GLP-1 alters islet function in humans and whether this is affected by type 2 diabetes.METHODSWe therefore studied individuals with and without type 2 diabetes on two occasions in random order. On one occasion, exendin 9-39, a competitive antagonist of the GLP-1 Receptor (GLP1R), was infused, while on the other, saline was infused. The tracer dilution technique ([3-3H] glucose) was used to measure glucose turnover during fasting and during a hyperglycemic clamp.RESULTSExendin 9-39 increased fasting glucose concentrations; fasting islet hormone concentrations were unchanged, but inappropriate for the higher fasting glucose observed. In people with type 2 diabetes, fasting glucagon concentrations were markedly elevated and persisted despite hyperglycemia. This impaired suppression of endogenous glucose production by hyperglycemia.CONCLUSIONThese data show that GLP1R blockade impairs islet function, implying that intra-islet GLP1R activation alters islet responses to glucose and does so to a greater degree in people with type 2 diabetes.TRIAL REGISTRATIONThis study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04466618.FUNDINGThe study was primarily funded by NIH NIDDK DK126206. AV is supported by DK78646, DK116231 and DK126206. CDM was supported by MIUR (Italian Minister for Education) under the initiative "Departments of Excellence" (Law 232/2016).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A. Welch
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rahele A. Farahani
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Aoife M. Egan
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Marcello C. Laurenti
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Maya Zeini
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Max Vella
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kent R. Bailey
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Chiara Dalla Man
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Aleksey Matveyenko
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Adrian Vella
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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9
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Kjeldsen SAS, Thomsen MN, Skytte MJ, Samkani A, Richter MM, Frystyk J, Magkos F, Hansen E, Thomsen HS, Holst JJ, Madsbad S, Haugaard SB, Krarup T, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Markers of Glucagon Resistance Improve With Reductions in Hepatic Steatosis and Body Weight in Type 2 Diabetes. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad122. [PMID: 37818402 PMCID: PMC10561012 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Hyperglucagonemia may develop in type 2 diabetes due to obesity-prone hepatic steatosis (glucagon resistance). Markers of glucagon resistance (including the glucagon-alanine index) improve following diet-induced weight loss, but the partial contribution of lowering hepatic steatosis vs body weight is unknown. Objective This work aimed to investigate the dependency of body weight loss following a reduction in hepatic steatosis on markers of glucagon resistance in type 2 diabetes. Methods A post hoc analysis was conducted from 2 previously published randomized controlled trials. We investigated the effect of weight maintenance (study 1: isocaloric feeding) or weight loss (study 2: hypocaloric feeding), both of which induced reductions in hepatic steatosis, on markers of glucagon sensitivity, including the glucagon-alanine index measured using a validated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and metabolomics in 94 individuals (n = 28 in study 1; n = 66 in study 2). Individuals with overweight or obesity with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to a 6-week conventional diabetes (CD) or carbohydrate-reduced high-protein (CRHP) diet within both isocaloric and hypocaloric feeding-interventions. Results By design, weight loss was greater after hypocaloric compared to isocaloric feeding, but both diets caused similar reductions in hepatic steatosis, allowing us to investigate the effect of reducing hepatic steatosis with or without a clinically relevant weight loss on markers of glucagon resistance. The glucagon-alanine index improved following hypocaloric, but not isocaloric, feeding, independently of macronutrient composition. Conclusion Improvements in glucagon resistance may depend on body weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Mads N Thomsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
| | - Mads J Skytte
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
| | - Amirsalar Samkani
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
| | - Michael M Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Jan Frystyk
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, 5000, Denmark
| | - Faidon Magkos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, 1958, Denmark
| | - Elizaveta Hansen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Herlev, Herlev, 2730, Denmark
| | - Henrik S Thomsen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Herlev, Herlev, 2730, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Sten Madsbad
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Hvidovre, Hvidovre, 2650, Denmark
| | - Steen B Haugaard
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Thure Krarup
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, 1958, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
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10
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Coate KC, Ramnanan CJ, Smith M, Winnick JJ, Kraft G, Irimia JM, Farmer B, Donahue P, Roach PJ, Cherrington AD, Edgerton DS. Integration of metabolic flux with hepatic glucagon signaling and gene expression profiles in the conscious dog. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.28.559999. [PMID: 37808670 PMCID: PMC10557670 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.559999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon rapidly and profoundly simulates hepatic glucose production (HGP), but for reasons which are unclear, this effect normally wanes after a few hours, despite sustained plasma glucagon levels. This study characterized the time course and relevance (to metabolic flux) of glucagon mediated molecular events in the livers of conscious dogs. Glucagon was either infused into the hepato-portal vein at a 6-fold basal rate in the presence of somatostatin and basal insulin, or it was maintained at a basal level in control studies. In one control group glucose remained at basal while in the other glucose was infused to match the hyperglycemia that occurred in the hyperglucagonemic group. Elevated glucagon caused a rapid (30 min) but only partially sustained increase in hepatic cAMP over 4h, a continued elevation in G6P, and activation and deactivation of glycogen phosphorylase and synthase activities, respectively. Net hepatic glycogenolysis and HGP increased rapidly, peaking at 30 min, then returned to baseline over the next 3h (although glucagons stimulatory effect on HGP was sustained relative to the hyperglycemic control group). Hepatic gluconeogenic flux did not increase due to lack of glucagon effect on substrate supply to the liver. Global gene expression profiling highlighted glucagon-regulated activation of genes involved in cellular respiration, metabolic processes, and signaling, and downregulation of genes involved in extracellular matrix assembly and development.
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11
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Zhang J, Zheng Y, Martens L, Pfeiffer AFH. The Regulation and Secretion of Glucagon in Response to Nutrient Composition: Unraveling Their Intricate Mechanisms. Nutrients 2023; 15:3913. [PMID: 37764697 PMCID: PMC10536047 DOI: 10.3390/nu15183913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucagon was initially regarded as a hyperglycemic substance; however, recent research has revealed its broader role in metabolism, encompassing effects on glucose, amino acids (AAs), and lipid metabolism. Notably, the interplay of glucagon with nutrient intake, particularly of AAs, and non-nutrient components is central to its secretion. Fasting and postprandial hyperglucagonemia have long been linked to the development and progression of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, recent studies have brought to light the positive impact of glucagon agonists on lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis. This review explores the multifaceted actions of glucagon, focusing on its regulation, signaling pathways, and effects on glucose, AAs, and lipid metabolism. The interplay between glucagon and other hormones, including insulin and incretins, is examined to provide a mechanistic understanding of its functions. Notably, the liver-α-cell axis, which involves glucagon and amino acids, emerges as a critical aspect of metabolic regulation. The dysregulation of glucagon secretion and its impact on conditions such as T2DM are discussed. The review highlights the potential therapeutic applications of targeting the glucagon pathway in the treatment of metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiudan Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China;
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (L.M.); (A.F.H.P.)
| | - Yang Zheng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China;
| | - Lisa Martens
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (L.M.); (A.F.H.P.)
- Nutritional Science, University of Potsdam, 14469 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Andreas F. H. Pfeiffer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (L.M.); (A.F.H.P.)
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12
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Spears E, Stanley JE, Shou M, Yin L, Li X, Dai C, Bradley A, Sellick K, Poffenberger G, Coate KC, Shrestha S, Jenkins R, Sloop KW, Wilson KT, Attie AD, Keller MP, Chen W, Powers AC, Dean ED. Pancreatic islet α cell function and proliferation requires the arginine transporter SLC7A2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.10.552656. [PMID: 37645716 PMCID: PMC10461917 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.10.552656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Interrupting glucagon signaling decreases gluconeogenesis and the fractional extraction of amino acids by liver from blood resulting in lower glycemia. The resulting hyperaminoacidemia stimulates α cell proliferation and glucagon secretion via a liver-α cell axis. We hypothesized that α cells detect and respond to circulating amino acids levels via a unique amino acid transporter repertoire. We found that Slc7a2ISLC7A2 is the most highly expressed cationic amino acid transporter in α cells with its expression being three-fold greater in α than β cells in both mouse and human. Employing cell culture, zebrafish, and knockout mouse models, we found that the cationic amino acid arginine and SLC7A2 are required for α cell proliferation in response to interrupted glucagon signaling. Ex vivo and in vivo assessment of islet function in Slc7a2-/- mice showed decreased arginine-stimulated glucagon and insulin secretion. We found that arginine activation of mTOR signaling and induction of the glutamine transporter SLC38A5 was dependent on SLC7A2, showing that both's role in α cell proliferation is dependent on arginine transport and SLC7A2. Finally, we identified single nucleotide polymorphisms in SLC7A2 associated with HbA1c. Together, these data indicate a central role for SLC7A2 in amino acid-stimulated α cell proliferation and islet hormone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick Spears
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Department of Biology, Belmont University, Nashville, TN
| | - Jade E. Stanley
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
| | - Matthew Shou
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Linlin Yin
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
| | - Chunhua Dai
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Amber Bradley
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Katelyn Sellick
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Greg Poffenberger
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Katie C. Coate
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Shristi Shrestha
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Regina Jenkins
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Kyle W. Sloop
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Keith T. Wilson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Center for Mucosal Inflammation and Cancer, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
- Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN
| | - Alan D. Attie
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Mark P. Keller
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Wenbiao Chen
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
| | - Alvin C. Powers
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
- Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN
| | - E. Danielle Dean
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
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13
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Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Holst JJ, Cherrington AD, Finan B, Gluud LL, Dean ED, Campbell JE, Bloom SR, Tan TMM, Knop FK, Müller TD. 100 years of glucagon and 100 more. Diabetologia 2023; 66:1378-1394. [PMID: 37367959 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-023-05947-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The peptide hormone glucagon, discovered in late 1922, is secreted from pancreatic alpha cells and is an essential regulator of metabolic homeostasis. This review summarises experiences since the discovery of glucagon regarding basic and clinical aspects of this hormone and speculations on the future directions for glucagon biology and glucagon-based therapies. The review was based on the international glucagon conference, entitled 'A hundred years with glucagon and a hundred more', held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in November 2022. The scientific and therapeutic focus of glucagon biology has mainly been related to its role in diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the glucose-raising properties of glucagon have been leveraged to therapeutically restore hypoglycaemia. The hyperglucagonaemia evident in type 2 diabetes has been proposed to contribute to hyperglycaemia, raising questions regarding underlying mechanism and the importance of this in the pathogenesis of diabetes. Mimicry experiments of glucagon signalling have fuelled the development of several pharmacological compounds including glucagon receptor (GCGR) antagonists, GCGR agonists and, more recently, dual and triple receptor agonists combining glucagon and incretin hormone receptor agonism. From these studies and from earlier observations in extreme cases of either glucagon deficiency or excess secretion, the physiological role of glucagon has expanded to also involve hepatic protein and lipid metabolism. The interplay between the pancreas and the liver, known as the liver-alpha cell axis, reflects the importance of glucagon for glucose, amino acid and lipid metabolism. In individuals with diabetes and fatty liver diseases, glucagon's hepatic actions may be partly impaired resulting in elevated levels of glucagonotropic amino acids, dyslipidaemia and hyperglucagonaemia, reflecting a new, so far largely unexplored pathophysiological phenomenon termed 'glucagon resistance'. Importantly, the hyperglucagonaemia as part of glucagon resistance may result in increased hepatic glucose production and hyperglycaemia. Emerging glucagon-based therapies show a beneficial impact on weight loss and fatty liver diseases and this has sparked a renewed interest in glucagon biology to enable further pharmacological pursuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, 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
| | - Alan D Cherrington
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Brian Finan
- Novo Nordisk Research Center Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - E Danielle Dean
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jonathan E Campbell
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology Division, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Stephen R Bloom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tricia M-M Tan
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Filip K Knop
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Timo D Müller
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), München Neuherberg, Germany
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14
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Lubaczeuski C, Bozadjieva-Kramer N, Louzada RA, Gittes GK, Leibowitz G, Bernal-Mizrachi E. Time-dependent effects of endogenous hyperglucagonemia on glucose homeostasis and hepatic glucagon action. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e162255. [PMID: 37140984 PMCID: PMC10393226 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.162255] [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: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Elevation of glucagon levels and increase in α cell proliferation is associated with states of hyperglycemia in diabetes. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing glucagon secretion could have major implications for understanding abnormal responses to hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes and provide novel avenues for diabetes management. Using mice with inducible induction of Rheb1 in α cells (αRhebTg mice), we showed that short-term activation of mTORC1 signaling is sufficient to induce hyperglucagonemia through increased glucagon secretion. Hyperglucagonemia in αRhebTg mice was also associated with an increase in α cell size and mass expansion. This model allowed us to identify the effects of chronic and short-term hyperglucagonemia on glucose homeostasis by regulating glucagon signaling in the liver. Short-term hyperglucagonemia impaired glucose tolerance, which was reversible over time. Liver glucagon resistance in αRhebTg mice was associated with reduced expression of the glucagon receptor and genes involved in gluconeogenesis, amino acid metabolism, and urea production. However, only genes regulating gluconeogenesis returned to baseline upon improvement of glycemia. Overall, these studies demonstrate that hyperglucagonemia exerts a biphasic response on glucose metabolism: Short-term hyperglucagonemia lead to glucose intolerance, whereas chronic exposure to glucagon reduced hepatic glucagon action and improved glucose tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Lubaczeuski
- Department of Medicine, Division Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Nadejda Bozadjieva-Kramer
- Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Research Service, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ruy A. Louzada
- Department of Medicine, Division Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - George K. Gittes
- Childrens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gil Leibowitz
- Diabetes Unit and Endocrine Service, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ernesto Bernal-Mizrachi
- Department of Medicine, Division Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Diabetes Unit and Endocrine Service, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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15
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Hamilton A, Eliasson L, Knudsen JG. Amino acids and the changing face of the α-cell. Peptides 2023:171039. [PMID: 37295651 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon has long been defined by its glucogenic action and as a result α-cells have been characterised based largely on their interaction with glucose. Recent findings have challenged this preconception, bringing to the fore the significant role glucagon plays in amino acid breakdown and underlining the importance of amino acids in glucagon secretion. The challenge that remains is defining the mechanism that underlie these effects - understanding which amino acids are most important, how they act on the α-cell and how their actions integrate with other fuels such as glucose and fatty acids. This review will describe the current relationship between amino acids and glucagon and how we can use this knowledge to redefine the α-cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Hamilton
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Islet Cell Exocytosis, Lund University Diabetes Centre, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - Lena Eliasson
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Islet Cell Exocytosis, Lund University Diabetes Centre, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - Jakob G Knudsen
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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16
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Naz R, Saqib F, Awadallah S, Wahid M, Latif MF, Iqbal I, Mubarak MS. Food Polyphenols and Type II Diabetes Mellitus: Pharmacology and Mechanisms. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28103996. [PMID: 37241737 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28103996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Type II diabetes mellitus and its related complications are growing public health problems. Many natural products present in our diet, including polyphenols, can be used in treating and managing type II diabetes mellitus and different diseases, owing to their numerous biological properties. Anthocyanins, flavonols, stilbenes, curcuminoids, hesperidin, hesperetin, naringenin, and phenolic acids are common polyphenols found in blueberries, chokeberries, sea-buckthorn, mulberries, turmeric, citrus fruits, and cereals. These compounds exhibit antidiabetic effects through different pathways. Accordingly, this review presents an overview of the most recent developments in using food polyphenols for managing and treating type II diabetes mellitus, along with various mechanisms. In addition, the present work summarizes the literature about the anti-diabetic effect of food polyphenols and evaluates their potential as complementary or alternative medicines to treat type II diabetes mellitus. Results obtained from this survey show that anthocyanins, flavonols, stilbenes, curcuminoids, and phenolic acids can manage diabetes mellitus by protecting pancreatic β-cells against glucose toxicity, promoting β-cell proliferation, reducing β-cell apoptosis, and inhibiting α-glucosidases or α-amylase. In addition, these phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant anti-inflammatory activities, modulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, optimize oxidative stress, reduce insulin resistance, and stimulate the pancreas to secrete insulin. They also activate insulin signaling and inhibit digestive enzymes, regulate intestinal microbiota, improve adipose tissue metabolism, inhibit glucose absorption, and inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end products. However, insufficient data are available on the effective mechanisms necessary to manage diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Naz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Saqib
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan
| | - Samir Awadallah
- Department of Medical Lab Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa 13110, Jordan
| | - Muqeet Wahid
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Farhaj Latif
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan
| | - Iram Iqbal
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan
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Hædersdal S, Andersen A, Knop FK, Vilsbøll T. Revisiting the role of glucagon in health, diabetes mellitus and other metabolic diseases. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023; 19:321-335. [PMID: 36932176 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00817-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Insulin and glucagon exert opposing effects on glucose metabolism and, consequently, pancreatic islet β-cells and α-cells are considered functional antagonists. The intra-islet hypothesis has previously dominated the understanding of glucagon secretion, stating that insulin acts to inhibit the release of glucagon. By contrast, glucagon is a potent stimulator of insulin secretion and has been used to test β-cell function. Over the past decade, α-cells have received increasing attention due to their ability to stimulate insulin secretion from neighbouring β-cells, and α-cell-β-cell crosstalk has proven central for glucose homeostasis in vivo. Glucagon is not only the counter-regulatory hormone to insulin in glucose metabolism but also glucagon secretion is more susceptible to changes in the plasma concentration of certain amino acids than to changes in plasma concentrations of glucose. Thus, the actions of glucagon also include a central role in amino acid turnover and hepatic fat oxidation. This Review provides insights into glucagon secretion, with a focus on the local paracrine actions on glucagon and the importance of α-cell-β-cell crosstalk. We focus on dysregulated glucagon secretion in obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Lastly, the future potential of targeting hyperglucagonaemia and applying dual and triple receptor agonists with glucagon receptor-activating properties in combination with incretin hormone receptor agonism is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Hædersdal
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark.
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark.
| | - Andreas Andersen
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Filip K Knop
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tina Vilsbøll
- Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark.
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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18
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Xiao Y, Wang Y, Ryu J, Liu W, Zou H, Zhang R, Yan Y, Dai Z, Zhang D, Sun LZ, Liu F, Zhou Z, Dong LQ. Upregulated TGF-β1 contributes to hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes by potentiating glucagon signalling. Diabetologia 2023; 66:1142-1155. [PMID: 36917279 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-023-05889-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Glucagon-stimulated hepatic gluconeogenesis contributes to endogenous glucose production during fasting. Recent studies suggest that TGF-β is able to promote hepatic gluconeogenesis in mice. However, the physiological relevance of serum TGF-β levels to human glucose metabolism and the mechanism by which TGF-β enhances gluconeogenesis remain largely unknown. As enhanced gluconeogenesis is a signature feature of type 2 diabetes, elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying TGF-β-promoted hepatic gluconeogenesis would allow us to better understand the process of normal glucose production and the pathophysiology of this process in type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the contribution of upregulated TGF-β1 in human type 2 diabetes and the molecular mechanism underlying the action of TGF-β1 in glucose metabolism. METHODS Serum levels of TGF-β1 were measured by ELISA in 74 control participants with normal glucose tolerance and 75 participants with type 2 diabetes. Human liver tissue was collected from participants without obesity and with or without type 2 diabetes for the measurement of TGF-β1 and glucagon signalling. To investigate the role of Smad3, a key signalling molecule downstream of the TGF-β1 receptor, in mediating the effect of TGF-β1 on glucagon signalling, we generated Smad3 knockout mice. Glucose levels in Smad3 knockout mice were measured during prolonged fasting and a glucagon tolerance test. Mouse primary hepatocytes were isolated from Smad3 knockout and wild-type (WT) mice to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Smad3 phosphorylation was detected by western blotting, levels of cAMP were detected by ELISA and levels of protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation were detected by western blotting. The dissociation of PKA subunits was measured by immunoprecipitation. RESULTS We observed higher levels of serum TGF-β1 in participants without obesity and with type 2 diabetes than in healthy control participants, which was positively correlated with HbA1c and fasting blood glucose levels. In addition, hyperactivation of the CREB and Smad3 signalling pathways was observed in the liver of participants with type 2 diabetes. Treating WT mouse primary hepatocytes with TGF-β1 greatly potentiated glucagon-stimulated PKA/CREB phosphorylation and hepatic gluconeogenesis. Mechanistically, TGF-β1 treatment induced the binding of Smad3 to the regulatory subunit of PKA (PKA-R), which prevented the association of PKA-R with the catalytic subunit of PKA (PKA-C) and led to the potentiation of glucagon-stimulated PKA signalling and gluconeogenesis. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION The hepatic TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway sensitises the effect of glucagon/PKA signalling on gluconeogenesis and synergistically promotes hepatic glucose production. Reducing serum levels of TGF-β1 and/or preventing hyperactivation of TGF-β1 signalling could be a novel approach for alleviating hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xiao
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yanfei Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Jiyoon Ryu
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Division of Biliopancreatic Surgery and Bariatric Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hailan Zou
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yin Yan
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhe Dai
- Department of Endocrinology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Deling Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu-Zhe Sun
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Feng Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiguang Zhou
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Lily Q Dong
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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19
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Ozawa H, Fukui K, Fujita Y, Ishibashi C, Yoneda S, Nammo T, Fujita S, Baden MY, Kimura T, Tokunaga A, Kozawa J, Eguchi H, Shimomura I. Expansion of human alpha-cell area is associated with a higher maximum body mass index before the onset of type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes 2023; 15:277-282. [PMID: 36843206 PMCID: PMC10036255 DOI: 10.1111/1753-0407.13370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Highlights: We examined whether maximum body mass index (BMI) before the onset of diabetes (MBBO) affects histological findings of islet cells. We divided patients into two groups according to an MBBO cutoff of 25 kg/m2 or BMI cutoff of 21 kg/m2. We compared immunohistochemical parameters between the MBBO groups or BMI groups. The relative alpha‐cell area in the high MBBO group was significantly higher than that in the low MBBO group. There was no difference in the other parameters between the MBBO groups or BMI groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harutoshi Ozawa
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Kenji Fukui
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Yukari Fujita
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
- Department of Community Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Chisaki Ishibashi
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Sho Yoneda
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
- Yoneda ClinicOsakaJapan
| | - Takao Nammo
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
- Department of Diabetes Care Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Shingo Fujita
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Megu Yamaguchi Baden
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Takekazu Kimura
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Ayumi Tokunaga
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Junji Kozawa
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
- Department of Diabetes Care Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Iichiro Shimomura
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Graduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
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20
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Kjeldsen SAS, Richter MM, Jensen NJ, Nilsson MSD, Heinz N, Nybing JD, Linden FH, Høgh-Schmidt E, Boesen MP, Madsbad S, Vilstrup H, Schiødt FV, Møller A, Nørgaard K, Schmidt S, Rashu EB, Gluud LL, Haugaard SB, Holst JJ, Rungby J, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Development of a glucagon sensitivity test in humans: Pilot data and the GLUSENTIC study protocol. Peptides 2023; 161:170938. [PMID: 36596314 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A physiological feedback system exists between hepatocytes and the alpha cells, termed the liver-alpha cell axis and refers to the relationship between amino acid-stimulated glucagon secretion and glucagon-stimulated amino acid catabolism. Several reports indicate that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) disrupts the liver-alpha cell axis, because of impaired glucagon receptor signaling (glucagon resistance). However, no experimental test exists to assess glucagon resistance in humans. The objective was to develop an experimental test to determine glucagon sensitivity with respect to amino acid and glucose metabolism in humans. The proposed glucagon sensitivity test (comprising two elements: 1) i.v. injection of 0.2 mg glucagon and 2) infusion of mixed amino acids 331 mg/hour/kg) is based on nine pilot studies which are presented. Calculation of a proposed glucagon sensitivity index with respect to amino acid catabolism is also described. Secondly, we describe a complete study protocol (GLUSENTIC) according to which the glucagon sensitivity test will be applied in a cross-sectional study currently taking place. 65 participants including 20 individuals with a BMI 18.6-25 kg/m2, 30 individuals with a BMI ≥ 25-40 kg/m2, and 15 individuals with type 1 diabetes with a BMI between 18.6 and 40 kg/m2 will be included. Participants will be grouped according to their degree of hepatic steatosis measured by whole-liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The primary outcome measure will be differences in the glucagon sensitivity index between individuals with and without hepatic steatosis. Developing a glucagon sensitivity test and index may provide insight into the physiological and pathophysiological mechanism of glucagon action and glucagon-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael M Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicole J Jensen
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Malin S D Nilsson
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niklas Heinz
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janus D Nybing
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik H Linden
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik Høgh-Schmidt
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikael P Boesen
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sten Madsbad
- Department of Endocrinology, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Andreas Møller
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Nørgaard
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | - Elias B Rashu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lise L Gluud
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steen B Haugaard
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Rungby
- Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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21
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Cui X, Feng J, Wei T, Zhang L, Lang S, Yang K, Yang J, Liu J, Sterr M, Lickert H, Wei R, Hong T. Pancreatic alpha cell glucagon-liver FGF21 axis regulates beta cell regeneration in a mouse model of type 2 diabetes. Diabetologia 2023; 66:535-550. [PMID: 36331598 PMCID: PMC9892158 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-022-05822-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Glucagon receptor (GCGR) antagonism ameliorates hyperglycaemia and promotes beta cell regeneration in mouse models of type 2 diabetes. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanism of beta cell regeneration induced by GCGR antagonism in mice. METHODS The db/db mice and high-fat diet (HFD)+streptozotocin (STZ)-induced mice with type 2 diabetes were treated with antagonistic GCGR monoclonal antibody (mAb), and the metabolic variables and islet cell quantification were evaluated. Plasma cytokine array and liver RNA sequencing data were used to screen possible mediators, including fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). ELISA, quantitative RT-PCR and western blot were applied to verify FGF21 change. Blockage of FGF21 signalling by FGF21-neutralising antibody (nAb) was used to clarify whether FGF21 was involved in the effects of GCGR mAb on the expression of beta cell identity-related genes under plasma-conditional culture and hepatocyte co-culture conditions. FGF21 nAb-treated db/db mice, systemic Fgf21-knockout (Fgf21-/-) diabetic mice and hepatocyte-specific Fgf21-knockout (Fgf21Hep-/-) diabetic mice were used to reveal the involvement of FGF21 in beta cell regeneration. A BrdU tracing study was used to analyse beta cell proliferation in diabetic mice treated with GCGR mAb. RESULTS GCGR mAb treatment improved blood glucose control, and increased islet number (db/db 1.6±0.1 vs 0.8±0.1 per mm2, p<0.001; HFD+STZ 1.2±0.1 vs 0.5±0.1 per mm2, p<0.01) and area (db/db 2.5±0.2 vs 1.2±0.2%, p<0.001; HFD+STZ 1.0±0.1 vs 0.3±0.1%, p<0.01) in diabetic mice. The plasma cytokine array and liver RNA sequencing data showed that FGF21 levels in plasma and liver were upregulated by GCGR antagonism. The GCGR mAb induced upregulation of plasma FGF21 levels (db/db 661.5±40.0 vs 466.2±55.7 pg/ml, p<0.05; HFD+STZ 877.0±106.8 vs 445.5±54.0 pg/ml, p<0.05) and the liver levels of Fgf21 mRNA (db/db 3.2±0.5 vs 1.8±0.1, p<0.05; HFD+STZ 2.0±0.3 vs 1.0±0.2, p<0.05) and protein (db/db 2.0±0.2 vs 1.4±0.1, p<0.05; HFD+STZ 1.6±0.1 vs 1.0±0.1, p<0.01). Exposure to plasma or hepatocytes from the GCGR mAb-treated mice upregulated the mRNA levels of characteristic genes associated with beta cell identity in cultured mouse islets and a beta cell line, and blockage of FGF21 activity by an FGF21 nAb diminished this upregulation. Notably, the effects of increased beta cell number induced by GCGR mAb were attenuated in FGF21 nAb-treated db/db mice, Fgf21-/- diabetic mice and Fgf21Hep-/- diabetic mice. Moreover, GCGR mAb treatment enhanced beta cell proliferation in the two groups of diabetic mice, and this effect was weakened in Fgf21-/- and Fgf21Hep-/- mice. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Our findings demonstrate that liver-derived FGF21 is involved in the GCGR antagonism-induced beta cell regeneration in a mouse model of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Cui
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Clinical Stem Research Cell Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Feng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tianjiao Wei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Clinical Stem Research Cell Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Linxi Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Lang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Clinical Stem Research Cell Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Clinical Stem Research Cell Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Junling Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Michael Sterr
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Heiko Lickert
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rui Wei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Clinical Stem Research Cell Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Tianpei Hong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Clinical Stem Research Cell Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
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22
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Effect of Quercetin Nanoparticles on Hepatic and Intestinal Enzymes and Stress-Related Genes in Nile Tilapia Fish Exposed to Silver Nanoparticles. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030663. [PMID: 36979642 PMCID: PMC10045288 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, nanotechnology has become an important research field involved in the improvement of animals’ productivity, including aquaculture. In this field, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have gained interest as antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents. On the other hand, their extensive use in other fields increased natural water pollution causing hazardous effects on aquatic organisms. Quercetin is a natural polyphenolic compound of many plants and vegetables, and it acts as a potent antioxidant and therapeutic agent in biological systems. The current study investigated the potential mitigative effect of quercetin nanoparticles (QNPs) against AgNPs-induced toxicity in Nile tilapia via investigating liver function markers, hepatic antioxidant status, apoptosis, and bioaccumulation of silver residues in hepatic tissue in addition to the whole-body chemical composition, hormonal assay, intestinal enzymes activity, and gut microbiota. Fish were grouped into: control fish, fish exposed to 1.98 mg L−1 AgNPs, fish that received 400 mg L−1 QNPs, and fish that received QNPs and AgNPs at the same concentrations. All groups were exposed for 60 days. The moisture and ash contents of the AgNP group were significantly higher than those of the other groups. In contrast, the crude lipid and protein decreased in the whole body. AgNPs significantly increased serum levels of ALT, AST, total cholesterol, and triglycerides and decreased glycogen and growth hormone (*** p < 0.001). The liver and intestinal enzymes’ activities were significantly inhibited (*** p < 0.001), while the oxidative damage liver enzymes, intestinal bacterial and Aeromonas counts, and Ag residues in the liver were significantly increased (*** p < 0.001, and * p < 0.05). AgNPs also significantly upregulated the expression of hepatic Hsp70, caspase3, and p53 genes (* p < 0.05). These findings indicate the oxidative and hepatotoxic effects of AgNPs. QNPs enhanced and restored physiological parameters and health status under normal conditions and after exposure to AgNPs.
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23
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Sanches JM, Zhao LN, Salehi A, Wollheim CB, Kaldis P. Pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes and the impact of altered metabolic interorgan crosstalk. FEBS J 2023; 290:620-648. [PMID: 34847289 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes is a complex and multifactorial disease that affects millions of people worldwide, reducing the quality of life significantly, and results in grave consequences for our health care system. In type 2 diabetes (T2D), the lack of β-cell compensatory mechanisms overcoming peripherally developed insulin resistance is a paramount factor leading to disturbed blood glucose levels and lipid metabolism. Impaired β-cell functions and insulin resistance have been studied extensively resulting in a good understanding of these pathways but much less is known about interorgan crosstalk, which we define as signaling between tissues by secreted factors. Besides hormones and organokines, dysregulated blood glucose and long-lasting hyperglycemia in T2D is associated with changes in metabolism with metabolites from different tissues contributing to the development of this disease. Recent data suggest that metabolites, such as lipids including free fatty acids and amino acids, play important roles in the interorgan crosstalk during the development of T2D. In general, metabolic remodeling affects physiological homeostasis and impacts the development of T2D. Hence, we highlight the importance of metabolic interorgan crosstalk in this review to gain enhanced knowledge of the pathophysiology of T2D, which may lead to new therapeutic approaches to treat this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Li Na Zhao
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Albert Salehi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Claes B Wollheim
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.,Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Kaldis
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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24
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Winther-Sørensen M, Holst JJ, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. The feedback cycles between glucose, amino acids and lipids and alpha cell secretion and their role in metabolic fatty liver disease. Curr Opin Lipidol 2023; 34:27-31. [PMID: 36373738 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0000000000000857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Glucagon increases hepatic glucose production and in patients with metabolic diseases, glucagon secretion is increased contributing to diabetic hyperglycemia. This review explores the role of amino acids and lipids in the regulation of glucagon secretion and how it may be disturbed in metabolic diseases such as obesity and metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). RECENT FINDINGS Human and animal studies have shown that MAFLD is associated with glucagon resistance towards amino acid catabolism, resulting in elevated plasma levels of amino acids. A recent clinical study showed that MAFLD is also associated with glucagon resistance towards lipid metabolism. In contrast, MAFLD may not decrease hepatic sensitivity to the stimulatory effects of glucagon on glucose production. SUMMARY Elevated plasma levels of amino acids and lipids associated with MAFLD may cause diabetogenic hyperglucagonemia. MAFLD and glucagon resistance may therefore be causally linked to hyperglycemia and the development of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
| | | | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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25
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Thymiakou E, Tzardi M, Kardassis D. Impaired hepatic glucose metabolism and liver-α-cell axis in mice with liver-specific ablation of the Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4α (Hnf4a) gene. Metabolism 2023; 139:155371. [PMID: 36464036 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2022.155371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hnf4a gene ablation in mouse liver causes hepatic steatosis, perturbs HDL structure and function and affects many pathways and genes related to glucose metabolism. Our aim here was to investigate the role of liver HNF4A in glucose homeostasis. METHODS Serum and tissue samples were obtained from Alb-Cre;Hnf4afl/fl (H4LivKO) mice and their littermate Hnf4afl/fl controls. Fasting glucose and insulin, glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance and glucagon challenge tests were performed by standard procedures. Binding of HNF4A to DNA was assessed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Gene expression analysis was performed by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. RESULTS H4LivKO mice presented lower blood levels of fasting glucose, improved glucose tolerance, increased serum lactate levels and reduced response to glucagon challenge compared to their control littermates. Insulin signaling in the liver was reduced despite the increase in serum insulin levels. H4LivKO mice showed altered expression of genes involved in glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and glycogen metabolism in the liver. The expression of the gene encoding the glucagon receptor (Gcgr) was markedly reduced in H4LivKO liver and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed specific and strong binding of HNF4A to the Gcgr promoter. H4LivKO mice presented increased amino acid concentration in the serum, α-cell hyperplasia and a dramatic increase in glucagon levels suggesting an impairment of the liver-α-cell axis. Glucose administration in the drinking water of H4LivKO mice resulted in an impressive extension of survival. The expression of several genes related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression to more severe liver pathologies, including Mcp1, Gdf15, Igfbp-1 and Hmox1, was increased in H4LivKO mice as early as 6 weeks of age and this increased expression was sustained until the endpoint of the study. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal a novel role of liver HNF4A in controlling blood glucose levels via regulation of glucagon signaling. In combination with the steatotic phenotype, our results suggest that H4LivKO mice could serve as a valuable model for studying glucose homeostasis in the context of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathia Thymiakou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71003, Greece; Gene Regulation and Epigenetics group, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology of Hellas, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Maria Tzardi
- Department of Pathology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Dimitris Kardassis
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71003, Greece; Gene Regulation and Epigenetics group, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology of Hellas, Heraklion 71003, Greece.
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26
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Gong Y, Yang B, Zhang D, Zhang Y, Tang Z, Yang L, Coate KC, Yin L, Covington BA, Patel RS, Siv WA, Sellick K, Shou M, Chang W, Danielle Dean E, Powers AC, Chen W. Hyperaminoacidemia induces pancreatic α cell proliferation via synergism between the mTORC1 and CaSR-Gq signaling pathways. Nat Commun 2023; 14:235. [PMID: 36646689 PMCID: PMC9842633 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35705-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucagon has emerged as a key regulator of extracellular amino acid (AA) homeostasis. Insufficient glucagon signaling results in hyperaminoacidemia, which drives adaptive proliferation of glucagon-producing α cells. Aside from mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), the role of other AA sensors in α cell proliferation has not been described. Here, using both genders of mouse islets and glucagon receptor (gcgr)-deficient zebrafish (Danio rerio), we show α cell proliferation requires activation of the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2) by the AA-sensitive calcium sensing receptor (CaSR). Inactivation of CaSR dampened α cell proliferation, which was rescued by re-expression of CaSR or activation of Gq, but not Gi, signaling in α cells. CaSR was also unexpectedly necessary for mTORC1 activation in α cells. Furthermore, coactivation of Gq and mTORC1 induced α cell proliferation independent of hyperaminoacidemia. These results reveal another AA-sensitive mediator and identify pathways necessary and sufficient for hyperaminoacidemia-induced α cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Gong
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
| | - Bingyuan Yang
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Dingdong Zhang
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Zihan Tang
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Katie C Coate
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Linlin Yin
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Brittney A Covington
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Ravi S Patel
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Walter A Siv
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Katelyn Sellick
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Matthew Shou
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Wenhan Chang
- University of California San Francisco and San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - E Danielle Dean
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Alvin C Powers
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
| | - Wenbiao Chen
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, 2215 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
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27
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Pixner T, Stummer N, Schneider AM, Lukas A, Gramlinger K, Julian V, Thivel D, Mörwald K, Mangge H, Dalus C, Aigner E, Furthner D, Weghuber D, Maruszczak K. The relationship between glucose and the liver-alpha cell axis - A systematic review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1061682. [PMID: 36686477 PMCID: PMC9849557 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1061682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Until recently, glucagon was considered a mere antagonist to insulin, protecting the body from hypoglycemia. This notion changed with the discovery of the liver-alpha cell axis (LACA) as a feedback loop. The LACA describes how glucagon secretion and pancreatic alpha cell proliferation are stimulated by circulating amino acids. Glucagon in turn leads to an upregulation of amino acid metabolism and ureagenesis in the liver. Several increasingly common diseases (e.g., non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity) disrupt this feedback loop. It is important for clinicians and researchers alike to understand the liver-alpha cell axis and the metabolic sequelae of these diseases. While most of previous studies have focused on fasting concentrations of glucagon and amino acids, there is limited knowledge of their dynamics after glucose administration. The authors of this systematic review applied PRISMA guidelines and conducted PubMed searches to provide results of 8078 articles (screened and if relevant, studied in full). This systematic review aims to provide better insight into the LACA and its mediators (amino acids and glucagon), focusing on the relationship between glucose and the LACA in adult and pediatric subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Pixner
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Nathalie Stummer
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anna Maria Schneider
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Andreas Lukas
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Karin Gramlinger
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
| | - Valérie Julian
- Department of Sport Medicine and Functional Explorations, Diet and Musculoskeletal Health Team, Human Nutrition Research Center (CRNH), INRA, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - David Thivel
- Laboratory of Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise under Physiological and Pathological Conditions (AME2P), University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Katharina Mörwald
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Harald Mangge
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Christopher Dalus
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Elmar Aigner
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- First Department of Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Dieter Furthner
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Daniel Weghuber
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Katharina Maruszczak
- Obesity Research Unit, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
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28
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Wang K, Cui X, Li F, Xia L, Wei T, Liu J, Fu W, Yang J, Hong T, Wei R. Glucagon receptor blockage inhibits β-cell dedifferentiation through FoxO1. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2023; 324:E97-E113. [PMID: 36383639 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00101.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon-secreting pancreatic α-cells play pivotal roles in the development of diabetes. Glucagon promotes insulin secretion from β-cells. However, the long-term effect of glucagon on the function and phenotype of β-cells had remained elusive. In this study, we found that long-term glucagon intervention or glucagon intervention with the presence of palmitic acid downregulated β-cell-specific markers and inhibited insulin secretion in cultured β-cells. These results suggested that glucagon induced β-cell dedifferentiation under pathological conditions. Glucagon blockage by a glucagon receptor (GCGR) monoclonal antibody (mAb) attenuated glucagon-induced β-cell dedifferentiation. In primary islets, GCGR mAb treatment upregulated β-cell-specific markers and increased insulin content, suggesting that blockage of endogenous glucagon-GCGR signaling inhibited β-cell dedifferentiation. To investigate the possible mechanism, we found that glucagon decreased FoxO1 expression. FoxO1 inhibitor mimicked the effect of glucagon, whereas FoxO1 overexpression reversed the glucagon-induced β-cell dedifferentiation. In db/db mice and β-cell lineage-tracing diabetic mice, GCGR mAb lowered glucose level, upregulated plasma insulin level, increased β-cell area, and inhibited β-cell dedifferentiation. In aged β-cell-specific FoxO1 knockout mice (with the blood glucose level elevated as a diabetic model), the glucose-lowering effect of GCGR mAb was attenuated and the plasma insulin level, β-cell area, and β-cell dedifferentiation were not affected by GCGR mAb. Our results proved that glucagon induced β-cell dedifferentiation under pathological conditions, and the effect was partially mediated by FoxO1. Our study reveals a novel cross talk between α- and β-cells and is helpful to understand the pathophysiology of diabetes and discover new targets for diabetes treatment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Glucagon-secreting pancreatic α-cells can interact with β-cells. However, the long-term effect of glucagon on the function and phenotype of β-cells has remained elusive. Our new finding shows that long-term glucagon induces β-cell dedifferentiation in cultured β-cells. FoxO1 inhibitor mimicks whereas glucagon signaling blockage by GCGR mAb reverses the effect of glucagon. In type 2 diabetic mice, GCGR mAb increases β-cell area, improves β-cell function, and inhibits β-cell dedifferentiation, and the effect is partially mediated by FoxO1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangli Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaona Cui
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Xia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tianjiao Wei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Junling Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tianpei Hong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Wei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, https://ror.org/04wwqze12Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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29
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Lützhøft DO, Sinioja T, Christoffersen BØ, Jakobsen RR, Geng D, Ahmad HFB, Straarup EM, Pedersen KM, Kot W, Pedersen HD, Cirera S, Hyötyläinen T, Nielsen DS, Hansen AK. Marked gut microbiota dysbiosis and increased imidazole propionate are associated with a NASH Göttingen Minipig model. BMC Microbiol 2022; 22:287. [DOI: 10.1186/s12866-022-02704-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Gut microbiota dysbiosis is associated with the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) through modulation of gut barrier, inflammation, lipid metabolism, bile acid signaling and short-chain fatty acid production. The aim of this study was to describe the impact of a choline-deficient amino acid defined high fat diet (CDAHFD) on the gut microbiota in a male Göttingen Minipig model and on selected pathways implicated in the development of NASH.
Results
Eight weeks of CDAHFD resulted in a significantly altered colon microbiota mainly driven by the bacterial families Lachnospiraceae and Enterobacteriaceae, being decreased and increased in relative abundance, respectively. Metabolomics analysis revealed that CDAHFD decreased colon content of short-chain fatty acid and increased colonic pH. In addition, serum levels of the microbially produced metabolite imidazole propionate were significantly elevated as a consequence of CDAHFD feeding. Hepatic gene expression analysis showed upregulation of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and Ras Homolog, MTORC1 binding in addition to downregulation of insulin receptor substrate 1, insulin receptor substrate 2 and the glucagon receptor in CDAHFD fed minipigs. Further, the consequences of CDAHFD feeding were associated with increased levels of circulating cholesterol, bile acids, and glucagon but not total amino acids.
Conclusions
Our results indicate imidazole propionate as a new potentially relevant factor in relation to NASH and discuss the possible implication of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the development of NASH. In addition, the study emphasizes the need for considering the gut microbiota and its products when developing translational animal models for NASH.
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30
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Kang Q, Zheng J, Jia J, Xu Y, Bai X, Chen X, Zhang XK, Wong FS, Zhang C, Li M. Disruption of the glucagon receptor increases glucagon expression beyond α-cell hyperplasia in zebrafish. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102665. [PMID: 36334626 PMCID: PMC9719020 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The glucagon receptor (GCGR) is a potential target for diabetes therapy. Several emerging GCGR antagonism-based therapies are under preclinical and clinical development. However, GCGR antagonism, as well as genetically engineered GCGR deficiency in animal models, are accompanied by α-cell hyperplasia and hyperglucagonemia, which may limit the application of GCGR antagonism. To better understand the physiological changes in α cells following GCGR disruption, we performed single cell sequencing of α cells isolated from control and gcgr-/- (glucagon receptor deficient) zebrafish. Interestingly, beyond the α-cell hyperplasia, we also found that the expression of gcga, gcgb, pnoca, and several glucagon-regulatory transcription factors were dramatically increased in one cluster of gcgr-/- α cells. We further confirmed that glucagon mRNA was upregulated in gcgr-/- animals by in situ hybridization and that glucagon promoter activity was increased in gcgr-/-;Tg(gcga:GFP) reporter zebrafish. We also demonstrated that gcgr-/- α cells had increased glucagon protein levels and increased granules after GCGR disruption. Intriguingly, the increased mRNA and protein levels could be suppressed by treatment with high-level glucose or knockdown of the pnoca gene. In conclusion, these data demonstrated that GCGR deficiency not only induced α-cell hyperplasia but also increased glucagon expression in α cells, findings which provide more information about physiological changes in α-cells when the GCGR is disrupted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Kang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jihong Zheng
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai YangZhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianxin Jia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai YangZhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuanxuan Bai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai YangZhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinhua Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Fujian Province, Institute of Oceanology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Kun Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - F Susan Wong
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Mingyu Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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31
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Lednovich KR, Gough S, Brenner M, Qadri T, Layden BT. G
Protein‐Coupled Receptors in Metabolic Disease. GPCRS AS THERAPEUTIC TARGETS 2022:521-552. [DOI: 10.1002/9781119564782.ch15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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32
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Elmelund E, Galsgaard KD, Johansen CD, Trammell SA, Bomholt AB, Winther-Sørensen M, Hunt JE, Sørensen CM, Kruse T, Lau JF, Grevengoed TJ, Holst JJ, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Opposing effects of chronic glucagon receptor agonism and antagonism on amino acids, hepatic gene expression, and alpha cells. iScience 2022; 25:105296. [PMID: 36325048 PMCID: PMC9618771 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The pancreatic hormone, glucagon, is known to regulate hepatic glucose production, but recent studies suggest that its regulation of hepatic amino metabolism is equally important. Here, we show that chronic glucagon receptor activation with a long-acting glucagon analog increases amino acid catabolism and ureagenesis and causes alpha cell hypoplasia in female mice. Conversely, chronic glucagon receptor inhibition with a glucagon receptor antibody decreases amino acid catabolism and ureagenesis and causes alpha cell hyperplasia and beta cell loss. These effects were associated with the transcriptional regulation of hepatic genes related to amino acid uptake and catabolism and by the non-transcriptional modulation of the rate-limiting ureagenesis enzyme, carbamoyl phosphate synthetase-1. Our results support the importance of glucagon receptor signaling for amino acid homeostasis and pancreatic islet integrity in mice and provide knowledge regarding the long-term consequences of chronic glucagon receptor agonism and antagonism. Glucagon receptor agonism increases amino acid catabolism and hepatic CPS-1 activity Glucagon receptor signaling regulates the number of pancreatic alpha cells Glucagon regulates the hepatic transcription of genes involved in amino acid metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Elmelund
- 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
| | - Christian D. Johansen
- 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 Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Samuel A.J. Trammell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna B. Bomholt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- 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 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
| | - Charlotte M. Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Kruse
- Novo Nordisk A/S, Research Chemistry, Novo Nordisk Park, 2760 Måløv, Denmark
| | - Jesper F. Lau
- Novo Nordisk A/S, Research Chemistry, Novo Nordisk Park, 2760 Måløv, Denmark
| | - Trisha J. Grevengoed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J. Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, 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 Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg & Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, 2400 Bispebjerg, Denmark
- Corresponding author
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33
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Maruszczak K, Rasmussen C, Ceutz FR, Ørgaard A, Elmelund E, Richter MM, Holst JJ, Winther-Sørensen M, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Arginine-induced glucagon secretion and glucagon-induced enhancement of amino acid catabolism are not influenced by ambient glucose levels in mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2022; 323:E207-E214. [PMID: 35830690 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00122.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Amino acids stimulate the secretion of glucagon, and glucagon receptor signaling regulates amino acid catabolism via ureagenesis, together constituting the liver-α cell axis. Impairment of the liver-α cell axis is observed in metabolic diseases such as diabetes. It is, however, unknown whether glucose affects the liver-α cell axis. We investigated the role of glucose on the liver-α cell axis in vivo and ex vivo. The isolated perfused mouse pancreas was used to evaluate the direct effect of low (3.5 mmol/L) and high (15 mmol/L) glucose levels on amino acid (10 mmol/L arginine)-induced glucagon secretion. High glucose levels alone lowered glucagon secretion, but the amino acid-induced glucagon responses were similar in high and low glucose conditions (P = 0.38). The direct effect of glucose on glucagon and amino acid-induced ureagenesis was assessed using isolated perfused mouse livers stimulated with a mixture of amino acids (VaminR, 10 mmol/L) and glucagon (10 nmol/L) during high and low glucose conditions. Urea production increased robustly but was independent of glucose levels (P = 0.95). To investigate the whole body effects of glucose on the liver-α cell axis, four groups of mice received intraperitoneal injections of glucose-Vamin (2 g/kg, + 3.5 µmol/g, respectively, G/V), saline-Vamin (S/V), glucose-saline (G/S), or saline-saline (S/S). Blood glucose did not differ significantly between G/S and G/V groups. Levels of glucagon and amino acids were similar in the G/V and S/V groups (P = 0.28). Amino acids may overrule the inhibitory effect of glucose on glucagon secretion and the liver-α cell axis may operate independently of glucose in mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Glucagon is an essential regulator of our metabolism. Recent evidence suggests that the physiological actions of glucagon reside in amino acid catabolism in the so-called liver-α cell axis, in which amino acids stimulate glucagon secretion and glucagon enhances hepatic amino acid catabolism. Here, it is demonstrated that this feedback system is independent of glycemia possibly explaining why hyperglycemia in diabetes may not suppress α cell secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Maruszczak
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christine Rasmussen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik R Ceutz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Ørgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emilie Elmelund
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael M Richter
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- NNF Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department for Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Richter MM, Galsgaard KD, Elmelund E, Knop FK, Suppli MP, Holst JJ, Winther-Sørensen M, Kjeldsen SA, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. The Liver-α-Cell Axis in Health and in Disease. Diabetes 2022; 71:1852-1861. [PMID: 35657688 PMCID: PMC9862287 DOI: 10.2337/dbi22-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon and insulin are the main regulators of blood glucose. While the actions of insulin are extensively mapped, less is known about glucagon. Besides glucagon's role in glucose homeostasis, there are additional links between the pancreatic α-cells and the hepatocytes, often collectively referred to as the liver-α-cell axis, that may be of importance for health and disease. Thus, glucagon receptor antagonism (pharmacological or genetic), which disrupts the liver-α-cell axis, results not only in lower fasting glucose but also in reduced amino acid turnover and dyslipidemia. Here, we review the actions of glucagon on glucose homeostasis, amino acid catabolism, and lipid metabolism in the context of the liver-α-cell axis. The concept of glucagon resistance is also discussed, and we argue that the various elements of the liver-α-cell axis may be differentially affected in metabolic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This conceptual rethinking of glucagon biology may explain why patients with type 2 diabetes have hyperglucagonemia and how NAFLD disrupts the liver-α-cell axis, compromising the normal glucagon-mediated enhancement of substrate-induced amino acid turnover and possibly fatty acid β-oxidation. In contrast to amino acid catabolism, glucagon-induced glucose production may not be affected by NAFLD, explaining the diabetogenic effect of NAFLD-associated hyperglucagonemia. Consideration of the liver-α-cell axis is essential to understanding the complex pathophysiology underlying diabetes and other metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M. Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Diagnostic Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine D. Galsgaard
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emilie Elmelund
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filip K. Knop
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Malte P. Suppli
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Jens J. Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sasha A.S. Kjeldsen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J. Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Diagnostic Center, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital—Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark
- Corresponding author: Nicolai J. Wewer Albrechtsen,
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Four weeks treatment with the GLP-1 receptor analogue liraglutide lowers liver fat and concomitantly circulating glucagon in individuals with overweight. Int J Obes (Lond) 2022; 46:2058-2062. [PMID: 35982119 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-022-01207-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effect of pharmacologically induced weight loss on markers of glucagon resistance in individuals with overweight during treatment with the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist liraglutide. We performed an open-label study in 14 men with overweight (age 38 ± 11 years, BMI 32 ± 4 kg/m2) without simultaneously diabetes. Subjects were treated with liraglutide, initiated and titrated with 0.6 mg/day/week to reach the final dose of 3.0 mg/day. Subjects were examined at baseline, during titration (Week 4), after 2 weeks of steady state (Week 6) of final dosing of liraglutide and 3 weeks after discontinuation of liraglutide (follow-up). Study participants lost 3.3 ± 1.9 kg (3%) total body weight during the first 4 weeks of treatment with liraglutide. Simultaneously, liver fat content decreased from 12.4 ± 11.6% to 10.2 ± 11.1%, p = 0.025, whereas fat content in the spleen and subcutaneous tissue was unaltered. Markers of glucagon resistance, including plasma glucagon and the glucagon-alanine-index, also decreased significantly during treatment, but total and individual plasma amino acid concentrations did not. Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was unchanged during treatment, whereas insulin clearance increased. Treatment with the GLP-1 receptor analogue liraglutide decreased liver fat content, and simultaneously attenuated glucagon concentrations and the glucagon-alanine index in individuals with overweight without diabetes.
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Insights into the Role of Glucagon Receptor Signaling in Metabolic Regulation from Pharmacological Inhibition and Tissue-Specific Knockout Models. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081907. [PMID: 36009454 PMCID: PMC9405517 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
While glucagon has long been recognized as the primary counter hormone to insulin’s actions, it has recently gained recognition as a metabolic regulator with its effects extending beyond control of glycemia. Recently developed models of tissue-specific glucagon receptor knockouts have advanced our understanding of this hormone, providing novel insight into the role it plays within organs as well as its systemic effects. Studies where the pharmacological blockade of the glucagon receptor has been employed have proved similarly valuable in the study of organ-specific and systemic roles of glucagon signaling. Studies carried out employing these tools demonstrate that glucagon indeed plays a role in regulating glycemia, but also in amino acid and lipid metabolism, systemic endocrine, and paracrine function, and in the response to cardiovascular injury. Here, we briefly review recent progress in our understanding of glucagon’s role made through inhibition of glucagon receptor signaling utilizing glucagon receptor antagonists and tissue specific genetic knockout models.
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37
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Glucagon-receptor-antagonism-mediated β-cell regeneration as an effective anti-diabetic therapy. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110872. [PMID: 35649369 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is a chronic disease with potentially severe complications, and β-cell deficiency underlies this disease. Despite active research, no therapy to date has been able to induce β-cell regeneration in humans. Here, we discover the β-cell regenerative effects of glucagon receptor antibody (anti-GcgR). Treatment with anti-GcgR in mouse models of β-cell deficiency leads to reversal of hyperglycemia, increase in plasma insulin levels, and restoration of β-cell mass. We demonstrate that both β-cell proliferation and α- to β-cell transdifferentiation contribute to anti-GcgR-induced β-cell regeneration. Interestingly, anti-GcgR-induced α-cell hyperplasia can be uncoupled from β-cell regeneration after antibody clearance from the body. Importantly, we are able to show that anti-GcgR-induced β-cell regeneration is also observed in non-human primates. Furthermore, anti-GcgR and anti-CD3 combination therapy reverses diabetes and increases β-cell mass in a mouse model of autoimmune diabetes.
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38
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Zmazek J, Grubelnik V, Markovič R, Marhl M. Modeling the Amino Acid Effect on Glucagon Secretion from Pancreatic Alpha Cells. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12040348. [PMID: 35448534 PMCID: PMC9028923 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12040348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a burdensome problem in modern society, and intensive research is focused on better understanding the underlying cellular mechanisms of hormone secretion for blood glucose regulation. T2DM is a bi-hormonal disease, and in addition to 100 years of increasing knowledge about the importance of insulin, the second hormone glucagon, secreted by pancreatic alpha cells, is becoming increasingly important. We have developed a mathematical model for glucagon secretion that incorporates all major metabolic processes of glucose, fatty acids, and glutamine as the most abundant postprandial amino acid in blood. In addition, we consider cAMP signaling in alpha cells. The model predictions quantitatively estimate the relative importance of specific metabolic and signaling pathways and particularly emphasize the important role of glutamine in promoting glucagon secretion, which is in good agreement with known experimental data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Zmazek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (J.Z.); (R.M.)
| | - Vladimir Grubelnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Rene Markovič
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (J.Z.); (R.M.)
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
| | - Marko Marhl
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (J.Z.); (R.M.)
- Faculty of Education, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Correspondence:
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Melick CH, Lama-Sherpa TD, Curukovic A, Jewell JL. G-Protein Coupled Receptor Signaling and Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 Regulation. Mol Pharmacol 2022; 101:181-190. [PMID: 34965982 PMCID: PMC9092479 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.121.000302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) senses upstream stimuli to regulate numerous cellular functions such as metabolism, growth, and autophagy. Increased activation of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) is typically observed in human disease and continues to be an important therapeutic target. Understanding the upstream regulators of mTORC1 will provide a crucial link in targeting hyperactivated mTORC1 in human disease. In this mini-review, we will discuss the regulation of mTORC1 by upstream stimuli, with a specific focus on G-protein coupled receptor signaling to mTORC1. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: mTORC1 is a master regulator of many cellular processes and is often hyperactivated in human disease. Therefore, understanding the molecular underpinnings of G-protein coupled receptor signaling to mTORC1 will undoubtedly be beneficial for human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chase H Melick
- Department of Molecular Biology, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer, and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Tshering D Lama-Sherpa
- Department of Molecular Biology, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer, and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Adna Curukovic
- Department of Molecular Biology, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer, and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jenna L Jewell
- Department of Molecular Biology, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer, and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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40
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High Protein Diet Feeding Aggravates Hyperaminoacidemia in Mice Deficient in Proglucagon-Derived Peptides. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14050975. [PMID: 35267952 PMCID: PMC8912298 DOI: 10.3390/nu14050975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Protein stimulates the secretion of glucagon (GCG), which can affect glucose metabolism. This study aimed to analyze the metabolic effect of a high-protein diet (HPD) in the presence or absence of proglucagon-derived peptides, including GCG and GLP-1. (2) Methods: The response to HPD feeding for 7 days was analyzed in mice deficient in proglucagon-derived peptides (GCGKO). (3) Results: In both control and GCGKO mice, food intake and body weight decreased with HPD and intestinal expression of Pepck increased. HPD also decreased plasma FGF21 levels, regardless of the presence of proglucagon-derived peptides. In control mice, HPD increased the hepatic expression of enzymes involved in amino acid metabolism without the elevation of plasma amino acid levels, except branched-chain amino acids. On the other hand, HPD-induced changes in the hepatic gene expression were attenuated in GCGKO mice, resulting in marked hyperaminoacidemia with lower blood glucose levels; the plasma concentration of glutamine exceeded that of glucose in HPD-fed GCGKO mice. (4) Conclusions: Increased plasma amino acid levels are a common feature in animal models with blocked GCG activity, and our results underscore that GCG plays essential roles in the homeostasis of amino acid metabolism in response to altered protein intake.
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Fournier C, Karagounis LG, Sacco SM, Horcajada MN, Decaens T, Offord EA, Bouzakri K, Ammann P. Impact of moderate dietary protein restriction on glucose homeostasis in a model of oestrogen deficiency. J Nutr Biochem 2022; 102:108952. [PMID: 35122999 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2022.108952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The need to consume adequate dietary protein to preserve physical function during ageing is well recognized. However, the effect of protein intakes on glucose metabolism is still intensively debated. During age-related oestrogen withdrawal at the time of the menopause, it is known that glucose homeostasis may be impaired but the influence of dietary protein levels in this context is unknown. The aim of the present study is to elucidate the individual and interactive effects of oestrogen deficiency and suboptimal protein intake on glucose homeostasis in a preclinical model involving ovariectomy (OVX) and a 13-week period of a moderately reduced protein intake in 7-month-old ageing rats. To investigate mechanisms of action acting via the pancreas-liver-muscle axis, fasting circulating levels of insulin, glucagon, IGF-1, FGF21 and glycemia were measured. The hepatic lipid infiltration and the protein expression of GLUT4 in the gastrocnemius were analyzed. The gene expression of some hepatokines, myokines and lipid storage/oxidation related transcription factors were quantified in the liver and the gastrocnemius. We show that, regardless of the oestrogen status, moderate dietary protein restriction increases fasting glycaemia without modifying insulinemia, body weight gain and composition. This fasting hyperglycaemia is associated with oestrogen status-specific metabolic alterations in the muscle and liver. In oestrogen-replete (SHAM) rats, GLUT4 was down-regulated in skeletal muscle while in oestrogen-deficient (OVX) rats, hepatic stress-associated hyperglucagonaemia and high serum FGF21 were observed. These findings highlight the importance of meeting dietary protein needs to avoid disturbances in glucose homeostasis in ageing female rats with or without oestrogen withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Fournier
- Service of Bone Diseases, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland; Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Research Center UGA/Inserm U 1209/CNRS 5309, La Tronche, France.
| | - Leonidas G Karagounis
- Nestlé Health Science, Translation Research, Epalinges, Switzerland; Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sandra M Sacco
- Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Noelle Horcajada
- Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Decaens
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Research Center UGA/Inserm U 1209/CNRS 5309, La Tronche, France; Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, Pôle Digidune, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Elizabeth A Offord
- Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences, Nestlé Research, Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Karim Bouzakri
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical Center, Geneva, Switzerland; UMR DIATHEC, EA 7294, Centre Européen d'Etude du Diabète, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Patrick Ammann
- Service of Bone Diseases, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
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Bossart M, Wagner M, Elvert R, Evers A, Hübschle T, Kloeckener T, Lorenz K, Moessinger C, Eriksson O, Velikyan I, Pierrou S, Johansson L, Dietert G, Dietz-Baum Y, Kissner T, Nowotny I, Einig C, Jan C, Rharbaoui F, Gassenhuber J, Prochnow HP, Agueusop I, Porksen N, Smith WB, Nitsche A, Konkar A. Effects on weight loss and glycemic control with SAR441255, a potent unimolecular peptide GLP-1/GIP/GCG receptor triagonist. Cell Metab 2022; 34:59-74.e10. [PMID: 34932984 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Unimolecular triple incretins, combining the activity of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), and glucagon (GCG), have demonstrated reduction in body weight and improved glucose control in rodent models. We developed SAR441255, a synthetic peptide agonist of the GLP-1, GCG, and GIP receptors, structurally based on the exendin-4 sequence. SAR441255 displays high potency with balanced activation of all three target receptors. In animal models, metabolic outcomes were superior to results with a dual GLP-1/GCG receptor agonist. Preclinical in vivo positron emission tomography imaging demonstrated SAR441255 binding to GLP-1 and GCG receptors. In healthy subjects, SAR441255 improved glycemic control during a mixed-meal tolerance test and impacted biomarkers for GCG and GIP receptor activation. Single doses of SAR441255 were well tolerated. The results demonstrate that integrating GIP activity into dual GLP-1 and GCG receptor agonism provides improved effects on weight loss and glycemic control while buffering the diabetogenic risk of chronic GCG receptor agonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Bossart
- Synthetic Medicinal Modalities, Integrated Drug Discovery Germany, Sanofi, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Michael Wagner
- Synthetic Medicinal Modalities, Integrated Drug Discovery Germany, Sanofi, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Evers
- Synthetic Medicinal Modalities, Integrated Drug Discovery Germany, Sanofi, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | | | - Katrin Lorenz
- Synthetic Medicinal Modalities, Integrated Drug Discovery Germany, Sanofi, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Olof Eriksson
- Antaros Medical AB, Mölndal, Sweden; Science For Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Irina Velikyan
- Science For Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; PET Centre, Centre for Medical Imaging, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Irene Nowotny
- Translational Medicine & Early Development, Sanofi, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Christelle Jan
- Clinical Sciences & Operations, Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Faiza Rharbaoui
- Translational Medicine & Early Development, Sanofi, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - William B Smith
- NOCCR Alliance for Multispecialty Research (AMR), Knoxville, TN, USA
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Maruszczak K, Radzikowski K, Schütz S, Mangge H, Bergsten P, Forslund A, Manell H, Pixner T, Ahlström H, Kullberg J, Mörwald K, Weghuber D. Determinants of hyperglucagonemia in pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1004128. [PMID: 36133310 PMCID: PMC9483010 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1004128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Over the years, non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) disease has progressed to become the most frequent chronic liver disease in children and adolescents. The full pathology is not yet known, but disease progression leads to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Risk factors included hypercaloric diet, obesity, insulin resistance and genetics. Hyperglucagonemia appears to be a pathophysiological consequence of hepatic steatosis, thus, the hypothesis of the study is that hepatic fat accumulation leads to increased insulin resistance and impaired glucagon metabolism leading to hyperglucagonemia in pediatric NAFLD. METHODS 132 children and adolescents between 10 and 18 years, with varying degrees of obesity, were included in the study. Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) average liver fat was determined, and patients were stratified as NAFLD (>5% liver fat content) and non-NAFLD (<5%). All patients underwent a standardized oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Additionally, anthropometric parameters (height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference) such as lab data including lipid profile (triglycerides, HDL, LDL), liver function parameters (ALT, AST), uric acid, glucose metabolism (fasting insulin and glucagon, HbA1c, glucose 120 min) and indices evaluating insulin resistance (HIRI, SPISE, HOMA-IR, WBISI) were measured. RESULTS Children and adolescents with NAFLD had significantly higher fasting glucagon values compared to the non-NAFLD cohort (p=0.0079). In the NAFLD cohort univariate analysis of fasting glucagon was associated with BMI-SDS (p<0.01), visceral adipose tissue volume (VAT) (p<0.001), average liver fat content (p<0.001), fasting insulin concentration (p<0.001), triglycerides (p<0.001) and HDL (p=0.034). This correlation equally applied to all insulin indices HOMA-IR, WBISI, HIRI (all p<0.001) and SPISE (p<0.002). Multivariate analysis (R² adjusted 0.509) for the same subgroup identified HIRI (p=0.003) and VAT volume (p=0.017) as the best predictors for hyperglucagonemia. Average liver fat content is predictive in pediatric overweight and obesity but not NAFLD. CONCLUSIONS Children and adolescents with NAFLD have significantly higher fasting plasma glucagon values, which were best predicted by hepatic insulin resistance and visceral adipose tissue, but not average liver fat content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Maruszczak
- Department of Pediatrics, Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Konrad Radzikowski
- Department of Pediatrics, Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sebastian Schütz
- Department of Mathematics, Paris Lodron University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Harald Mangge
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Peter Bergsten
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Forslund
- 5Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hannes Manell
- 5Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thomas Pixner
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
| | - Håkan Ahlström
- Department of Radiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden & Antaros Medical, BioVenture Hub, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Joel Kullberg
- Department of Radiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden & Antaros Medical, BioVenture Hub, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Katharina Mörwald
- Department of Pediatrics, Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Daniel Weghuber
- Department of Pediatrics, Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- *Correspondence: Daniel Weghuber,
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Rhyu J, Yu R. Newly discovered endocrine functions of the liver. World J Hepatol 2021; 13:1611-1628. [PMID: 34904032 PMCID: PMC8637678 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i11.1611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver, the largest solid visceral organ of the body, has numerous endocrine functions, such as direct hormone and hepatokine production, hormone metabolism, synthesis of binding proteins, and processing and redistribution of metabolic fuels. In the last 10 years, many new endocrine functions of the liver have been discovered. Advances in the classical endocrine functions include delineation of mechanisms of liver production of endocrine hormones [including 25-hydroxyvitamin D, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and angiotensinogen], hepatic metabolism of hormones (including thyroid hormones, glucagon-like peptide-1, and steroid hormones), and actions of specific binding proteins to glucocorticoids, sex steroids, and thyroid hormones. These studies have furthered insight into cirrhosis-associated endocrinopathies, such as hypogonadism, osteoporosis, IGF-1 deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, alterations in glucose and lipid homeostasis, and controversially relative adrenal insufficiency. Several novel endocrine functions of the liver have also been unraveled, elucidating the liver’s key negative feedback regulatory role in the pancreatic α cell-liver axis, which regulates pancreatic α cell mass, glucagon secretion, and circulating amino acid levels. Betatrophin and other hepatokines, such as fetuin-A and fibroblast growth factor 21, have also been discovered to play important endocrine roles in modulating insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and body weight. It is expected that more endocrine functions of the liver will be revealed in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Rhyu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Run Yu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
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Wada E, Kobayashi M, Kohno D, Kikuchi O, Suga T, Matsui S, Yokota-Hashimoto H, Honzawa N, Ikeuchi Y, Tsuneoka H, Hirano T, Obinata H, Sasaki T, Kitamura T. Disordered branched chain amino acid catabolism in pancreatic islets is associated with postprandial hypersecretion of glucagon in diabetic mice. J Nutr Biochem 2021; 97:108811. [PMID: 34197915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2021.108811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of glucagon is associated with the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes. We previously reported that postprandial hyperglucagonemia is more obvious than fasting hyperglucagonemia in type 2 diabetes patients. However, which nutrient stimulates glucagon secretion in the diabetic state and the underlying mechanism after nutrient intake are unclear. To answer these questions, we measured plasma glucagon levels in diabetic mice after oral administration of various nutrients. The effects of nutrients on glucagon secretion were assessed using islets isolated from diabetic mice and palmitate-treated islets. In addition, we analyzed the expression levels of branched chain amino acid (BCAA) catabolism-related enzymes and their metabolites in diabetic islets. We found that protein, but not carbohydrate or lipid, increased plasma glucagon levels in diabetic mice. Among amino acids, BCAAs, but not the other essential or nonessential amino acids, increased plasma glucagon levels. BCAAs also directly increased the intracellular calcium concentration in α cells. When BCAAs transport was suppressed by an inhibitor of system L-amino acid transporters, glucagon secretion was reduced even in the presence of BCAAs. We also found that the expression levels of BCAA catabolism-related enzymes and their metabolite contents were altered in diabetic islets and palmitate-treated islets compared to control islets, indicating disordered BCAA catabolism in diabetic islets. Furthermore, BCKDK inhibitor BT2 suppressed BCAA-induced hypersecretion of glucagon in diabetic islets and palmitate-treated islets. Taken together, postprandial hypersecretion of glucagon in the diabetic state is attributable to disordered BCAA catabolism in pancreatic islet cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eri Wada
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Masaki Kobayashi
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kohno
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Osamu Kikuchi
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Suga
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Sho Matsui
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan; Laboratory of Nutrition Chemistry, Division of Food Science and Biotechnology Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiromi Yokota-Hashimoto
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Norikiyo Honzawa
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yuichi Ikeuchi
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Haruka Tsuneoka
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Touko Hirano
- Education and Research Support Center, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hideru Obinata
- Education and Research Support Center, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Sasaki
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan; Laboratory of Nutrition Chemistry, Division of Food Science and Biotechnology Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tadahiro Kitamura
- Metabolic Signal Research Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan.
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Bethea M, Bozadjieva-Kramer N, Sandoval DA. Preproglucagon Products and Their Respective Roles Regulating Insulin Secretion. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6329397. [PMID: 34318874 PMCID: PMC8375443 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab150] [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: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Historically, intracellular function and metabolic adaptation within the α-cell has been understudied, with most of the attention being placed on the insulin-producing β-cells due to their role in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, there is a growing interest in understanding the function of other endocrine cell types within the islet and their paracrine role in regulating insulin secretion. For example, there is greater appreciation for α-cell products and their contributions to overall glucose homeostasis. Several recent studies have addressed a paracrine role for α-cell-derived glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in regulating glucose homeostasis and responses to metabolic stress. Further, other studies have demonstrated the ability of glucagon to impact insulin secretion by acting through the GLP-1 receptor. These studies challenge the central dogma surrounding α-cell biology describing glucagon's primary role in glucose counterregulation to one where glucagon is critical in regulating both hyper- and hypoglycemic responses. Herein, this review will update the current understanding of the role of glucagon and α-cell-derived GLP-1, placing emphasis on their roles in regulating glucose homeostasis, insulin secretion, and β-cell mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maigen Bethea
- Department of Pediatrics, Nutrition Section, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Darleen A Sandoval
- Department of Pediatrics, Nutrition Section, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Correspondence: Darleen A. Sandoval, PhD, University of Colorado Anschut, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes,12801 E 17th Ave. Research Complex 1 South 7th Floor, Aurora, CO 80045, USA. E-mail:
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Walker JT, Saunders DC, Brissova M, Powers AC. The Human Islet: Mini-Organ With Mega-Impact. Endocr Rev 2021; 42:605-657. [PMID: 33844836 PMCID: PMC8476939 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This review focuses on the human pancreatic islet-including its structure, cell composition, development, function, and dysfunction. After providing a historical timeline of key discoveries about human islets over the past century, we describe new research approaches and technologies that are being used to study human islets and how these are providing insight into human islet physiology and pathophysiology. We also describe changes or adaptations in human islets in response to physiologic challenges such as pregnancy, aging, and insulin resistance and discuss islet changes in human diabetes of many forms. We outline current and future interventions being developed to protect, restore, or replace human islets. The review also highlights unresolved questions about human islets and proposes areas where additional research on human islets is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Walker
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Diane C Saunders
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Marcela Brissova
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Alvin C Powers
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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48
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Otten J, Stomby A, Waling M, Chorell E, Ryberg M, Svensson M, Holst JJ, Olsson T. The liver-alpha-cell axis after a mixed meal and during weight loss in type 2 diabetes. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:1101-1110. [PMID: 34382579 PMCID: PMC8494406 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glucagon and amino acids may be regulated in a feedback loop called the liver-alpha-cell axis with alanine or glutamine as suggested signal molecules. We assessed this concept in individuals with type 2 diabetes in the fasting state, after ingestion of a protein-rich meal, and during weight loss. Moreover, we investigated if postprandial glucagon secretion and hepatic insulin sensitivity were related. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of a 12-week weight-loss trial (Paleolithic diet ± exercise) in 29 individuals with type 2 diabetes. Before and after the intervention, plasma glucagon and amino acids were measured in the fasting state and during 180 min after a protein-rich mixed meal. Hepatic insulin sensitivity was measured using the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp with [6,6-2H2]glucose as a tracer. RESULTS The postprandial increase of plasma glucagon was associated with the postprandial increase of alanine and several other amino acids but not glutamine. In the fasted state and after the meal, glucagon levels were negatively correlated with hepatic insulin sensitivity (rS = -0.51/r = -0.58, respectively; both P < 0.05). Improved hepatic insulin sensitivity with weight loss was correlated with decreased postprandial glucagon response (r = -0.78; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Several amino acids, notably alanine, but not glutamine could be key signals to the alpha cell to increase glucagon secretion. Amino acids may be part of a feedback mechanism as glucagon increases endogenous glucose production and ureagenesis in the liver. Moreover, postprandial glucagon secretion seems to be tightly related to hepatic insulin sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Otten
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Correspondence should be addressed to J Otten:
| | - Andreas Stomby
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Region Jönköping County, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Maria Waling
- Department of Food, Nutrition and Culinary Science, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Elin Chorell
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mats Ryberg
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Michael Svensson
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Section for Sports Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå Sweden
| | - Jens Juul Holst
- NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tommy Olsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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49
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Liu Q, Lin G, Chen Y, Feng W, Xu Y, Lyu J, Yang D, Wang MW. Deleterious mutation V369M in the mouse GCGR gene causes abnormal plasma amino acid levels indicative of a possible liver-α-cell axis. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:BSR20210758. [PMID: 34002801 PMCID: PMC8173527 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20210758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucagon plays an important role in glucose homeostasis and amino acid metabolism. It regulates plasma amino acid levels which in turn modulate glucagon secretion from the pancreatic α-cell, thereby establishing a liver-α-cell axis described recently. We reported previously that the knock-in mice bearing homozygous V369M substitution (equivalent to a naturally occurring mutation V368M in the human glucagon receptor, GCGR) led to hypoglycemia with improved glucose tolerance. They also exhibited hyperglucagonemia, pancreas enlargement and α-cell hyperplasia. Here, we investigated the effect of V369M/V368M mutation on glucagon-mediated amino acid metabolism. It was found that GcgrV369M+/+ mice displayed increased plasma amino acid levels in general, but significant accumulation of the ketogenic/glucogenic amino acids was observed in animals fed with a high-fat diet (HFD), resulting in deleterious metabolic consequence characteristic of α-cell proliferation and hyperglucagonemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaofeng Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Guangyao Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wenbo Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yingna Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jianjun Lyu
- Department of Pathology, InnoStar BioTech Nantong Co., Ltd., Nantong 226133, China
| | - Dehua Yang
- The National Center for Drug Screening and CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ming-Wei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
- The National Center for Drug Screening and CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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50
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Vega RB, Whytock KL, Gassenhuber J, Goebel B, Tillner J, Agueusop I, Truax AD, Yu G, Carnero E, Kapoor N, Gardell S, Sparks LM, Smith SR. A Metabolomic Signature of Glucagon Action in Healthy Individuals With Overweight/Obesity. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab118. [PMID: 34337278 PMCID: PMC8317630 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Glucagon is produced and released from the pancreatic alpha-cell to regulate glucose levels during periods of fasting. The main target for glucagon action is the liver, where it activates gluconeogenesis and glycogen breakdown; however, glucagon is postulated to have other roles within the body. Objective We sought to identify the circulating metabolites that would serve as markers of glucagon action in humans. Methods In this study (NCT03139305), we performed a continuous 72-hour glucagon infusion in healthy individuals with overweight/obesity. Participants were randomized to receive glucagon 12.5 ng/kg/min (GCG 12.5), glucagon 25 ng/kg/min (GCG 25), or a placebo control. A comprehensive metabolomics analysis was then performed from plasma isolated at several time points during the infusion to identify markers of glucagon activity. Results Glucagon (GCG 12.5 and GCG 25) resulted in significant changes in the plasma metabolome as soon as 4 hours following infusion. Pathways involved in amino acid metabolism were among the most affected. Rapid and sustained reduction of a broad panel of amino acids was observed. Additionally, time-dependent changes in free fatty acids and diacylglycerol and triglyceride species were observed. Conclusion These results define a distinct signature of glucagon action that is broader than the known changes in glucose levels. In particular, the robust changes in amino acid levels may prove useful to monitor changes induced by glucagon in the context of additional glucagon-like peptide-1 or gastric inhibitory polypeptide treatment, as these agents also elicit changes in glucose levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rick B Vega
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Katie L Whytock
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gongxin Yu
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Elvis Carnero
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Nidhi Kapoor
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Stephen Gardell
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Lauren M Sparks
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Steven R Smith
- Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
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