Efficacy and Safety of the SGLT2 Inhibitor Luseogliflozin in Japanese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Stratified According to Baseline Body Mass Index: Pooled Analysis of Data From 52-Week Phase III Trials

A Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effect of Luseogliflozin on Bone Microarchitecture Evaluated Using HR-pQCT in Elderly Type 2 Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Bone fragility is a critical issue in the treatment of elderly people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In the Canagliflozin Cardiovascular Assessment Study, the subjects with T2D who were treated with canagliflozin showed a significant increase in fracture events compared to a placebo group as early as 12 weeks post-initiation. In addition, it has been unclear whether sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors promote bone fragility. We used high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) to prospectively evaluate the short-term effect of the SGLT2 inhibitor luseogliflozin on bone strength and microarchitecture in elderly people with T2D.

METHODS

This was a single-center, randomized, open-label, active-controlled pilot trial for ≥ 60-year-old Japanese individuals with T2D without osteoporosis. A total of 22 subjects (seven women and 15 men) were randomly assigned to a Lusefi group (added luseogliflozin 2.5 mg) or a control group (added metformin 500 mg) and treated for 48 weeks. We used the second-generation HR-pQCT (Xtreme CT II®, Scanco Medical, Brüttisellen, Switzerland) before and 48 weeks after the treatment to evaluate the subjects' bone microarchitecture and estimate their bone strength.

RESULTS

Twenty subjects (Lusefi group, n = 9; control group, n = 11) completed the study, with no fracture events. As the primary outcome, the 48-week changes in the bone strength (stiffness and failure load) estimated by micro-finite element analysis were not significantly different between the groups. As the secondary outcome, the changes in all of the cortical/trabecular microarchitectural parameters at the radius and tibia from baseline to 48 weeks were not significantly different between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In the pilot trial, we observed no negative effect of 48-week luseogliflozin treatment on bone microarchitecture or bone strength in elderly people with T2D.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN-CTR no. 000036202 and jRCT 071180061.

Research advances in the anti-inflammatory effects of SGLT inhibitors in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most significant global burden diseases. It is well established that a chronic, systemic, low-grade inflammatory condition is strongly correlated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and the development of target-organ damage (TOD). Sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors (SGLTis), novel oral drugs for the treatment of diabetes, act mainly by reducing glucose reabsorption in proximal renal tubules and/or the intestine. Several high-quality clinical trials and large observational studies have revealed that SGLTis significantly improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes in T2D patients. Increasing evidence suggests that this is closely related to their anti-inflammatory properties, which are mainly manifested by a reduction in plasma concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers. This review analyses the potential mechanisms behind the anti-inflammatory effects of SGLTis in diabetes and presents recent evidence of their therapeutic efficacy in treating diabetes and related TOD.

Pretreatment body mass index affects achievement of target blood pressure with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2-I) shows excellent antihypertensive effects in addition to its hypoglycemic effects. However, whether body mass index (BMI) affects the antihypertensive effect of SGLT2-I remains unknown. We investigated the impact of baseline BMI on the achievement of target blood pressure (BP) with SGLT2-I treatment in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). We retrospectively evaluated 447 Japanese patients with T2DM and CKD treated with SGLT2-I for at least 1 year. The primary outcome was achieving the target BP (<130/80 mmHg) after SGLT2-I treatment. Patients were divided into two groups according to a baseline BMI of 29.1 determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis and analyzed in a cohort model with propensity score matching. In each group, 130 patients were compared by propensity score matching. The target BP achievement rate was significantly higher in the BMI < 29.1 group than in the BMI ≥ 29.1 group (34% and 21%, respectively, p = 0.03). The odds ratio for achieving the target BP in the BMI ≥ 29.1 group was 0.50 (95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.90, p = 0.02). The BMI < 29.1 group had significantly lower systolic and diastolic BPs after SGLT2-I treatment than the BMI ≥ 29.1 group. Only the BMI < 29.1 group was showed a significant decrease in the logarithmic albumin-to-creatinine ratio from baseline after SGLT2-I treatment. In patients with T2DM and CKD, baseline BMI was associated with the antihypertensive effects of SGLT2-I. Patients in the lower baseline BMI group were more likely to achieve the target BP after SGLT2-I treatment. Pretreatment BMI affects the antihypertensice effect of SGLT2 inhibirors in patients with T2DM and CKD.

Efficacy and Safety of Switching from Sitagliptin to Ipragliflozin in Obese Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Single-Arm Multicenter Interventional Study

BACKGROUND

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors have limited efficacy in improving glycemic control for obese Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors are recommended for use in patients with type 2 diabetes with obesity. Nevertheless, there has been no previously published study on the effect of switching from dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors to sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors on the systemic and organic effects in obese Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of switching from sitagliptin to ipragliflozin for 24 weeks in obese Japanese patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Fifty-one obese patients with type 2 diabetes (body mass index > 25 kg/m2) treated with sitagliptin (50 mg) and metformin but with inadequate glycemic control (glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1c] > 7.5% and < 9.0%) were enrolled. After a 4-week observation period, sitagliptin was switched to ipragliflozin (50 mg) for 24 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in HbA1c from baseline to the end of treatment. The secondary outcomes were changes in clinical characteristics and other biochemical variables.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients with an average HbA1c of 8.37 ± 0.48% and body mass index of 28.8 ± 3.8 kg/m2 were enrolled. Fifty patients completed the study, one patient stopped ipragliflozin at 4 weeks because of the development of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome. No significant change in HbA1c from baseline to the end of treatment was observed (- 0.02 ± 0.75%). However, fasting plasma glucose was reduced (- 16.2 ± 28.4 mg/dL, p < 0.001), and biochemical variables associated with insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and hepatic and renal functions showed significant improvements. No severe adverse effects were observed, except in the one aforementioned case.

CONCLUSIONS

Switching from sitagliptin to ipragliflozin did not alter HbA1c in obese patients with type 2 diabetes, while improving parameters related to organ homeostasis. These data provide novel information useful for selecting oral anti-diabetic agents for patients with type 2 diabetes with obesity, a risk factor for developing various complications of diabetes.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Japan Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: jRCT#031190022.

Tofogliflozin long-term effects on atherosclerosis progression and major clinical parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus lacking a history of cardiovascular disease: a 2-year extension study of the UTOPIA trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the long-term effects of tofogliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, on atherosclerosis progression and major clinical parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes lacking an apparent history of cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational 2-year extension study of the "Using TOfogliflozin for Possible better Intervention against Atherosclerosis for type 2 diabetes patients (UTOPIA)" trial, a 2-year randomized intervention study. The primary endpoints represented changes in the carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). Secondary endpoints included brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and biomarkers for glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, renal function, and cardiovascular risks.

RESULTS

The mean IMT of the common carotid artery (IMT-CCA) significantly decreased in both the tofogliflozin (- 0.067 mm, standard error 0.009, p < 0.001) and conventional treatment groups (- 0.080 mm, SE 0.009, p < 0.001) throughout the follow-up period; however, no significant intergroup differences in the changes (0.013 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) - 0.012 to 0.037, p = 0.32) were observed in a mixed-effects model for repeated measures. baPWV significantly increased in the conventional treatment group (82.7 ± 210.3 cm/s, p = 0.008) but not in the tofogliflozin group (- 17.5 ± 221.3 cm/s, p = 0.54), resulting in a significant intergroup difference in changes (- 100.2 cm/s, 95% CI - 182.8 to - 17.5, p = 0.018). Compared to the conventional treatment group, tofogliflozin significantly improved the hemoglobin A1c and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, body mass index, abdominal circumference, and systolic blood pressure. The frequencies of total and serious adverse events did not vary significantly between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Tofogliflozin was not associated with improved inhibition of carotid wall thickening but exerted long-term positive effects on various cardiovascular risk factors and baPWV while showing a good safety profile.

Efficacy and safety of luseogliflozin in Caucasian patients with type 2 diabetes: results from a phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Most data demonstrating the efficacy and safety of luseogliflozin (luseo) in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) originate from the Japanese population. This study evaluated luseo versus placebo (PCB) as add-on to metformin in a Caucasian population with inadequately controlled T2DM.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, PCB-controlled, parallel-group study. Patients aged 18-75 years with inadequately controlled T2DM (glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥7% to ≤10% (≥53 to ≤86 mmol/mol)) despite a diet and exercise program and on a stable metformin regimen were eligible. Patients were randomized to one of three luseo groups (2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg) or PCB for 12 weeks (W12). The primary endpoint was change in HbA1c expressed as least-square means from baseline (W0) to W12.

RESULTS

A total of 328 patients were randomized: PCB (n=83) and luseo 2.5 mg (n=80), 5.0 mg (n=86), and 10.0 mg (n=79). Mean age (±SD) was 58.5±8.8 years; 64.6% were women; body mass index was 31.5±3.4 kg/m2; and HbA1c was 8.54±0.70. At W12, mean reductions in HbA1c from W0 were -0.98%, -1.09%, -1.18%, and -0.73% in the luseo 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg, and PCB groups, respectively, all of which were statistically significant. Compared with PCB, HbA1c levels were significantly decreased by 0.25% (p=0.045), 0.36% (p=0.006), and 0.45% (p=0.001) in the luseo 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg groups, respectively. In all luseo dose groups, reductions in body weight were statistically significant compared with PCB. Data from the safety analysis were consistent with the known luseo safety profile.

CONCLUSIONS

All doses of luseo as add-on to metformin in Caucasian patients with uncontrolled T2DM demonstrated significant efficacy in decreasing HbA1c after W12 of treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN39549850.

Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: Adiposopathy as a Triggering Factor and Therapeutic Options

Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are major public health concerns associated with serious morbidity and increased mortality. Both obesity and T2DM are strongly associated with adiposopathy, a term that describes the pathophysiological changes of the adipose tissue. In this review, we have highlighted adipose tissue dysfunction as a major factor in the etiology of these conditions since it promotes chronic inflammation, dysregulated glucose homeostasis, and impaired adipogenesis, leading to the accumulation of ectopic fat and insulin resistance. This dysfunctional state can be effectively ameliorated by the loss of at least 15% of body weight, that is correlated with better glycemic control, decreased likelihood of cardiometabolic disease, and an improvement in overall quality of life. Weight loss can be achieved through lifestyle modifications (healthy diet, regular physical activity) and pharmacotherapy. In this review, we summarized different effective management strategies to address weight loss, such as bariatric surgery and several classes of drugs, namely metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, amylin analogs, and SGLT2 inhibitors. These drugs act by targeting various mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of obesity and T2DM, and they have been shown to induce significant weight loss and improve glycemic control in obese individuals with T2DM.

Using a Mathematical Modeling To Simulate Pharmacokinetics and Urinary Glucose Excretion of Luseogliflozin and Explore the Role of SGLT1/2 in Renal Glucose Reabsorption

(1) Purpose: To develop a mathematical model combining physiologically based pharmacokinetic and urinary glucose excretion (PBPK-UGE) to simultaneously predict pharmacokinetic (PK) and UGE changes of luseogliflozin (LUS) as well as to explore the role of sodium-glucose cotransporters (SGLT1 and SGLT2) in renal glucose reabsorption (RGR) in humans. (2) Methods: The PBPK-UGE model was built using physicochemical and biochemical properties, binding kinetics data, affinity to SGLTs for glucose, and physiological parameters of renal tubules. (3) Results: The simulations using this model clarified that SGLT1/2 contributed 15 and 85%, respectively, to RGR in the absence of LUS. However, in the presence of LUS, the contribution proportion of SGLT1 rose to 52-76% in healthy individuals and 55-83% in T2DM patients, and that of SGLT2 reduced to 24-48 and 17-45%, respectively. Furthermore, this model supported the underlying mechanism that only 23-40% inhibition of the total RGR with 5 mg of LUS is resulted from SGLT1's compensatory effect and the reabsorption activity of unbound SGLT2. (4) Conclusion: This PBPK-UGE model can predict PK and UGE in healthy individuals and T2DM patients and can also analyze the contribution of SGLT1/2 to RGR with and without LUS.

Comparing the Effects of Canagliflozin vs. Glimepiride by Body Mass Index in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Heart Failure: A Subanalysis of the CANDLE Trial

Background: We present results of a 24-week comparative study of the effects of the sodium−glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor canagliflozin vs. the sulfonylurea glimepiride, by baseline body mass index (BMI), in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic heart failure. Methods: We conducted a post hoc analysis of the CANDLE trial. This subanalysis evaluated NT-proBNP, BMI, and other laboratory parameters, according to the subgroups stratified by BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 vs. BMI < 25 kg/m2. Results: A group ratio of proportional changes in the geometric means of NT-proBNP was 0.99 (p = 0.940) for the subgroup with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and 0.85 (p = 0.075) for the subgroup with BMI < 25 kg/m2, respectively. When baseline BMI was modeled as a continuous variable, results for patients with BMI < 30 kg/m2 showed a slightly smaller increase in NT-proBNP in the canagliflozin group vs. the glimepiride group (p = 0.295); that difference was not seen among patients with BMI ≥30 kg/m2 (p = 0.948). Irrespective of obesity, the canagliflozin group was associated with significant reduction in BMI compared to the glimepiride group. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in the effects of canagliflozin, relative to glimepiride, on NT-proBNP concentrations irrespective of baseline obesity. UMIN clinical trial registration number: UMIN000017669.

Novel Noninvasive Approaches to the Treatment of Obesity: From Pharmacotherapy to Gene Therapy

Recent insights into the pathophysiologic underlying mechanisms of obesity have led to the discovery of several promising drug targets and novel therapeutic strategies to address the global obesity epidemic and its comorbidities. Current pharmacologic options for obesity management are largely limited in number and of modest efficacy/safety profile. Therefore, the need for safe and more efficacious new agents is urgent. Drugs that are currently under investigation modulate targets across a broad range of systems and tissues, including the central nervous system, gastrointestinal hormones, adipose tissue, kidney, liver, and skeletal muscle. Beyond pharmacotherapeutics, other potential antiobesity strategies are being explored, including novel drug delivery systems, vaccines, modulation of the gut microbiome, and gene therapy. The present review summarizes the pathophysiology of energy homeostasis and highlights pathways being explored in the effort to develop novel antiobesity medications and interventions but does not cover devices and bariatric methods. Emerging pharmacologic agents and alternative approaches targeting these pathways and relevant research in both animals and humans are presented in detail. Special emphasis is given to treatment options at the end of the development pipeline and closer to the clinic (ie, compounds that have a higher chance to be added to our therapeutic armamentarium in the near future). Ultimately, advancements in our understanding of the pathophysiology and interindividual variation of obesity may lead to multimodal and personalized approaches to obesity treatment that will result in safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss until the root causes of the problem are identified and addressed.

Factors Influencing Change in Serum Uric Acid After Administration of the Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor Luseogliflozin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Although sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors lower serum uric acid, their long-term effect on uric acid metabolism is not well understood. We analyzed pooled data from studies wherein patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus received luseogliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor. Upon stratifying patients by baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c ) or serum uric acid, lower HbA1c or higher serum uric acid level was associated with a greater reduction in serum uric acid after treatment. At week 12 of treatment, significant increases in urinary glucose/creatinine (Cr) ratio and urinary uric acid clearance/Cr clearance ratio (CUA /CCr ratio) and a significant reduction in serum uric acid were observed. Comparison of the subgroups of patients with a reduction or an increase in serum uric acid showed that the increase subgroup had a higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline, and the eGFR was significantly reduced, associated with a significant reduction in the CUA /CCr ratio. Multiple regression analysis showed that the reduction in serum uric acid in the luseogliflozin group was strongly associated with baseline high serum uric acid, low HbA1c levels, and an increase in eGFR. Luseogliflozin was shown to reduce serum uric acid by enhancing urinary uric acid excretion in association with increased urinary glucose. Treatment with luseogliflozin resulted in increased serum uric acid in some patients, which may be due to reduced glomerular filtration of uric acid via the tubuloglomerular feedback. SGLT2 inhibitors reduced serum uric acid desirably in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with low HbA1c and high serum uric acid.

Structural Perspectives and Advancement of SGLT2 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is an ailment that affects a large number of individuals worldwide and its pervasiveness has been predicted to increase later on. Every year, billions of dollars are spent globally on diabetes-related health care practices. Contemporary hyperglycemic therapies to rationalize Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) mostly involve pathways that are insulin-dependent and lack effectiveness as the pancreas' β-cell function declines more significantly. Homeostasis via kidneys emerges as a new and future strategy to minimize T2DM complications. This article covers the reabsorption of glucose mechanism in the kidneys, the functional mechanism of various Sodium- Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, their structure and driving profile, and a few SGLT2 inhibitors now accessible in the market as well as those in different periods of advancement. The advantages of SGLT2 inhibitors are dose-dependent glycemic regulation changes with a significant reduction both in the concentration of HbA1c and body weight clinically and statistically. A considerable number of SGLT2 inhibitors have been approved by the FDA, while a few others, still in preliminaries, have shown interesting effects.

Effects of SGLT2 Inhibitors on Atherosclerosis: Lessons from Cardiovascular Clinical Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetic Patients and Basic Researches

Atherosclerosis-caused cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are effective oral drugs for the treatment of T2DM patients. Multiple pre-clinical and clinical studies have indicated that SGLT2 inhibitors not only reduce blood glucose but also confer benefits with regard to body weight, insulin resistance, lipid profiles and blood pressure. Recently, some cardiovascular outcome trials have demonstrated the safety and cardiovascular benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors beyond glycemic control. The SGLT2 inhibitors empagliflozin, canagliflozin, dapagliflozin and ertugliflozin reduce the rates of major adverse cardiovascular events and of hospitalization for heart failure in T2DM patients regardless of CVD. The potential mechanisms of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardioprotection may be involved in improving the function of vascular endothelial cells, suppressing oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammation and regulating autophagy, which further protect from the progression of atherosclerosis. Here, we summarized the pre-clinical and clinical evidence of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardioprotection and discussed the potential molecular mechanisms of SGLT2 inhibitors in preventing the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and CVD.

"The pharmacological profile of SGLT2 inhibitors: Focus on mechanistic aspects and pharmacogenomics"

Diabetes, characterized by high glucose levels, has been listed to be one of the world's major causes of death. Around 1.6 million deaths are attributed to this disease each year. Persistent hyperglycemic conditions in diabetic patients affect various organs of the body leading to diabetic complications and worsen the disease condition. Current treatment strategies for diabetes include biguanides, sulfonylureas, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, insulin and its analogs, DPP-4(dipeptidyl peptidase-4) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide) analogs. However, many side effects contributing to the devastation of the disease are associated with them. Sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibition has been reported to be new insulin-independent approach to diabetes therapy. It blocks glucose uptake in the kidneys by inhibiting SGLT2 transporters, thereby promoting glycosuria. Dapagliflozin, empagliflozin and canagliflozin are the most widely used SGLT2 inhibitors. They are effective in controlling blood glucose and HbA1c levels with few side effects including hypoglycemia or weight gain which makes them preferable to other anti-diabetic drugs. However, treatment is found to be associated with inter-individual drug response to SGLT2 inhibitors and adverse drug reactions which are also affected by genetic variations. There have been very few pharmacogenetics trials of these drugs. This review discusses the various SGLT2 inhibitors, their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and genetic variation influencing the inter-individual drug response.

Effect of Dapagliflozin on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Single-Center Survey

Introduction

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease, with a global prevalence of 20%-40%. Approximately 40%-60% of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) experience NAFLD; out of which 20%-40% cases may have higher severity. Due to the scarcity of available reports from the eastern part of India, we aimed to evaluate the effects of dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor used in these types of cases.

Material and methods

The study included consecutive patients with DM2 and NAFLD, treated with dapagliflozin at 10 mg daily for six months. All patients underwent detailed anthropometric, biochemical, abdominal ultrasonography, and transient elastography studies at baseline and after therapy as well as a comparative analysis.

Results

In the 100 patients included in our study, the male patients outnumbered the female patients (male-to-female ratio, 4.27:-1) and the mean age at presentation was 44.11 ± 8.24 years. The mean body mass index significantly decreased over the course of the therapy, from 27.31± 1.87 kg/m² at baseline to 26.21 ± 1.51 kg/m² after the therapy. The patients’ transaminitis, dyslipidemia, and glycemic status significantly improved over the course of the therapy. We also observed significant (p < 0.05) improvement in hepatic steatosis by the end of the treatment. Although transient elastography by FibroScan-measured hepatic fibrosis score (Echosens, Paris, France) significantly decreased from 6.95 ± 1.42 to 6 ± 1.44 kPa, hepatic fibrosis did not improve significantly (p ≥ 0.05) following therapy.

Conclusion

Although dapagliflozin improved body mass index, transaminitis, dyslipidemia, glycemic status, and hepatic steatosis, it had a minimal effect on hepatic fibrosis.

Efficacy and Safety of Luseogliflozin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Complicated by Hepatic Dysfunction: A Single-Site, Single-Arm, Open-Label, Exploratory Trial

INTRODUCTION

Improvements in glycemic control and hepatic function are clinically important goals in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) complicated by hepatic dysfunction. The favorable effects of the sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitor luseogliflozin on hepatic dysfunction were anticipated for humans. Nevertheless, few clinical studies have confirmed its real-world efficacy on hepatic dysfunction. This trial assessed the efficacy and safety of luseogliflozin in patients with T2DM complicated by hepatic dysfunction.

METHODS

This prospective, single-site, single-arm, open-label, exploratory trial included 55 subjects with T2DM complicated by hepatic dysfunction. Subjects were administered luseogliflozin and observed for 52 weeks. The primary endpoints were the change in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (γ-GTP), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) from baseline to week 52. The secondary endpoints included body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), homeostatic model assessment beta (HOMA-β), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), ferritin, Mac-2 binding protein (M2-BP), fatty liver index (FLI), fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index, type IV collagen 7S domain, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6).

RESULTS

AST, ALT, γ-GTP, and HbA1c significantly decreased from baseline to week 52. Body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and FPG also significantly decreased. HOMA-IR significantly decreased but HOMA-β was unchanged. FLI, ferritin, M2-BP, and NAFLD fibrosis scores significantly decreased whereas the FIB-4 index and type IV collagen 7S domain did not significantly change. The hs-CRP and IL-6 levels did not significantly change.

CONCLUSION

Luseogliflozin administration in patients with T2DM complicated by hepatic dysfunction was well tolerated, did not worsen the hepatic condition, and might even be beneficial to improve hepatic function, reduce liver fat, and attenuate liver injury and fibrosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered under the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN-CTR) (No. UMIN000025808) and the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCT) (No. jRCTs021180017).

1,5-anhydroglucitol is a good predictor for the treatment effect of the Sodium-Glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

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1,5-AG is the novel predictor of HbA1c reduction with SGLT2 inhibitors.

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1,5-AG is a useful predictor that is unaffected by the use of other diabetic drugs.

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The most appropriate 1,5-AG cutoff level is 7.65 µg/mL.

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In patients with 1,5-AG >7.7 µg/mL, SGLT2 inhibitors do not reduce HbA1c as much.

Background and Aims

The suitable selection of appropriate medicines is one of important factor in successful diabetes care. We looked for clinical indicators that could predict the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors in advance.

Methods and Results

In a single-center, this retrospective study was designed to examine predictive indices of the effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors. Using the medical records of 169 patients, we investigated the differences in clinical data between a group with improved glycemic control and a group with less improved glycemic control. 32 weeks of treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors decreased the HbA1c levels by 0.71%. The glucose-lowering effect was associated with improvement of the liver function. The maximum BMI change was independent of the rate of the HbA1c reduction. The HbA1c reduction was greater in patients with low 1,5-AG. This determination was unaffected by the use of anti-diabetic medication. Limiting HbA1c from 7.0% (52 mmol/mol) to 8.4% (68 mmol/mol) did not change this tendency. The maximum sum of sensitivity and specificity for patients with an HbA1c improvement of more than 0.7% was obtained with a 1,5-AG cutoff level of 7.65 µg/mL.

Conclusion

The use of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with T2DM, 1,5-AG was identified as the most reliable indicator for predicting HbA1c reduction.

Effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly common in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Currently, some studies have found that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, a new hypoglycemic drug, can improve non-alcoholic fatty liver in addition to its hypoglycemic effect. Thus, we undertook a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors on the treatment of NAFLD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with NAFLD and type 2 diabetes mellitus up to 1 October 2019. Differences were expressed as weight mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for continuous outcomes. The I2 statistic was applied to evaluate the heterogeneity of studies.

RESULTS

A total of six trials including 309 patients were selected into our meta-analysis. SGLT2 inhibitors could reduce alanine aminotransferase (WMD -11.05 IU/L, 95% CI -19.85, -2.25, P = 0.01) and magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction (WMD -2.07%, 95% CI -3.86, -0.28, P = 0.02). However, SGLT2 inhibitors did not reduce aspartate aminotransferase (WMD -1.11 IU/L, 95% CI -2.39, 0.17, P = 0.09). In addition, secondary outcomes, such as bodyweight and visceral fat area, were also reduced (WMD -1.62 kg, 95% CI -2.02, -1.23, P < 0.00001; WMD -19.98 cm2 , 95% CI -27.18, -12.79, P < 0.00001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2 inhibitors can significantly decrease alanine aminotransferase and liver fat, accompanied with weight loss, which might have a positive effect on fatty liver in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The limitation is that the sample size of the studies was small. Therefore, more large randomized controlled trials specified on NAFLD are required to evaluate these results.

Effects of luseogliflozin on arterial properties in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: The multicenter, exploratory LUSCAR study

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce the occurrence of cardiovascular and renal complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and represent guideline-recommended therapy in this indication. However, precise mechanisms underlying the beneficial cardiovascular effects of SGLT2 inhibitors are not fully understood. This study investigated the effects of the SGLT2 inhibitor, luseogliflozin, on arterial properties and home blood pressure (BP) in patients with T2DM. This multicenter, single-arm study enrolled adults with T2DM, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 6.5%-8.9% in the previous 4 weeks, and an indication for new/additional antidiabetic therapy. Luseogliflozin 2.5 mg/d was given for 12 weeks. Primary outcome was change in cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) from baseline to Week 4 and Week 12. Home and office BP, BP variability, and metabolic parameters were secondary endpoints. Forty-seven patients (mean age 63.5 ± 10.7 years) treated with luseogliflozin were included in the full analysis set. CAVI did not change significantly from baseline (mean [95% confidence interval] 8.67 [8.37-8.97]) to Week 12 (8.64 [8.38-8.91]; P = .750), but there were significant reductions from baseline in morning home BP, HbA1c, body weight, body mass index, and serum uric acid levels during luseogliflozin therapy. The reduction in morning home systolic BP was ≥ 5 mm Hg and was independent of baseline BP and BP control status. In conclusion, there was no change in arterial stiffness (based on CAVI) during treatment with luseogliflozin, but changes in BP and metabolic parameters were consistent with the known beneficial effects of SGLT2 inhibitors in T2DM.

Control of 24-hour blood pressure with SGLT2 inhibitors to prevent cardiovascular disease

The presence of hypertension (HTN) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) further worsens cardiovascular disease (CVD) prognosis. In addition, masked HTN and abnormal circadian blood pressure (BP) variability are common among patients with DM. Clinical trial data show that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) improve CVD prognosis and prevent progression of renal dysfunction in high-risk patients with type 2 DM (T2DM). Consistent reductions in 24-hour, daytime and nocturnal BP have been documented during treatment with SGLT2i in patients with DM and HTN, and these reductions are of a magnitude that is likely to be clinically significant. SGLT2i agents also appear to have beneficial effects on morning, evening and nocturnal home BP. Greater reductions in BP during treatment with SGLT2i have been reported in patient subgroups with higher body mass index, and in those with higher baseline BP. Other documented beneficial effects of SGLT2i include reductions in arterial stiffness and the potential to decrease the apnea-hypopnea index in patients with DM and obstructive sleep apnea. Recent guidelines highlight the important role of SGLT2i as part of the pharmacological management of patients with DM and HTN, and recommend consideration of SGLT2i early in the clinical course to reduce all-cause and CVD mortality in patients with T2DM and CVD. Overall, available data support a role for SGLT2i as effective BP-lowering agents in patients with T2DM and poorly controlled HTN, irrespective of baseline glucose control status. Sustained improvements in 24-hour BP and the 24-hour BP profile are likely to contribute to the CVD benefits of SGLT2i treatment.

Natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity: Possibilities of application for the treatment of diabetes

Diabetes mellitus currently affects as many as 400 million people worldwide, creating a heavy economic burden and stretching health care resources. A dysfunction of glucose homeostasis underlies the disease. Despite advances in the treatment of diabetes, many patients still suffer from complications and side effects; hence, development of more effective treatments for diabetes is still desirable. SGLT2 is the principle cotransporter involved in glucose reabsorption in the kidney. SGLT2 inhibition reduces glucose reabsorption by the kidney and ameliorates plasma glucose concentration. The interest in natural products that can be used for the inhibition of SGLT2 is growing. The flavonoid phlorizin, which can be isolated from the bark of apple trees, has been used as lead structure due to its inhibitory activity of SGLT1 and SGLT2. Some phlorizin-derived synthetic compounds, including canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, ipragliflozin, and ertugliflozin, are approved by the food and drug administration to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), whereas others are under clinical trials investigation. In addition, other natural product-derived compounds have been investigated for their ability to improve blood glucose control. The present review summarizes the natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity, and the synthetic compounds obtained from them, and discusses their application for the treatment of diabetes.

Effect of SGLT2 inhibitor on renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

This study summarizes the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on renal function and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and EMBASE for reports published up to March 2018 and included RCTs reporting estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and/or urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) changes. Data extraction and assessment of research quality based on Cochrane risk biasing tools. Data were calculated to represent the standardized mean difference (SMD) for each study, and the SMDs with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random effects model.

RESULTS

Fifty-one studies were included that evaluated eGFR levels, and 17 studies were included that evaluated UACR levels. A meta-analysis showed that SGLT2 inhibitors had no significant effect on eGFR levels (SMD - 0.02, 95% CI - 0.06, 0.03, p = 0.45), and eGFR reduction was observed in the subsets of the duration of the trial 12 < duration ≤ 26 weeks (SMD - 0.08, 95% CI - 0.13, - 0.02, p = 0.005) and mean baseline eGFR < 60 ml/min per 1.73 square meters (SMD - 0.22, 95% CI - 0.37, - 0.07, p = 0.004). We found that SGLT2 inhibitors reduced UACR levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (SMD - 0.11, 95% CI - 0.17, - 0.05, p = 0.0001). Compared with monotherapy, the combination with other hypoglycemic agents can reduce albuminuria levels (SMD - 0.13, 95% CI - 0.19, - 0.06, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of SGLT2 inhibitor on eGFR in patients with T2DM was not statistically significant, but it was effective in reducing albuminuria levels.

Should sulfonylurea be discontinued or maintained at the lowest dose when starting ipragliflozin? A multicenter observational study in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

We investigated the difference in efficacy and safety between discontinuation and maintaining of sulfonylurea when adding a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the present multicenter, prospective observational study, 200 patients with type 2 diabetes treated with sulfonylurea and with a need to add ipragliflozin were enrolled and divided into two groups: discontinued sulfonylurea (Discontinuation group) or maintained sulfonylurea, but at the lowest dose (Low-dose group) when adding ipragliflozin. We compared the two groups after 24 weeks using propensity score matching to adjust for differences between the groups.

RESULTS

In the matched cohort (58 patients in each group), baseline characteristics of both groups were balanced. The primary outcome of the proportion of patients with non-exacerbation in glycated hemoglobin after 24 weeks was 91.4% in the Low-dose group and 75.9% in the Discontinuation group, a significant difference (P = 0.024). However, bodyweight was significantly decreased in the Discontinuation group compared with the Low-dose group (-4.4 ± 2.1 kg vs -2.9 ± 1.9 kg, P < 0.01). Similarly, liver enzyme improvement was more predominant in the Discontinuation group. A logistic regression analysis showed that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, age and sulfonylurea dose were independent factors associated with non-exacerbation of glycated hemoglobin in the Discontinuation group.

CONCLUSIONS

The purpose of using ipragliflozin should be considered when making the decision to discontinue or maintain sulfonylurea at the lowest dose. Furthermore, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, low dose of sulfonylurea and younger age were possible markers to not show worsening of glycemic control by discontinuing sulfonylurea.

Weight loss associated with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibition: a review of evidence and underlying mechanisms

With their novel, insulin-independent mechanism, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a major turning point in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. At present, there are several SGLT2 inhibitors available or in development, and these oral anti-hyperglycaemic agents lower plasma glucose through the inhibition of SGLT2-mediated reuptake of filtered glucose in the kidney. This unique mechanism of action is also expected to result in other beneficial effects, such as weight loss and blood pressure reduction. In various studies, including randomized controlled trials and real-world studies, patients treated with SGLT2 inhibitors have reported weight loss of around 1 to 3 kg. This review describes the characteristics of weight loss associated with SGLT2 inhibitor therapy, the clinical factors affecting SGLT2 inhibitor-associated weight loss and the possible underlying mechanisms of SGLT2 inhibitor-associated weight loss, including changes in metabolism and body composition, and the role of a reduction in insulin dose and compensatory hyperphagia. Understanding the weight loss effect of SGLT2 inhibitors, its related factors and underlying mechanisms can aid clinicians in optimal treatment decision-making, provide valuable insight on both obesity and diabetes management and reveal areas of future research and new therapeutic options.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor luseogliflozin added to glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist liraglutide improves glycemic control with bodyweight and fat mass reductions in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes: A 52-week, open-label, single-arm study

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of luseogliflozin added to liraglutide monotherapy in Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This 52-week, multicenter, open-label, single-arm clinical study enrolled Japanese patients who had inadequate glycemic control with diet/exercise and liraglutide monotherapy. Major efficacy end-points included the changes from baseline in glycated hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose and bodyweight. Body composition was also assessed in individuals who had access to bioelectrical impedance analysis. Safety assessments included adverse events, clinical laboratory tests, vital signs and 12-lead electrocardiograms.

RESULTS

Of 76 patients who received luseogliflozin, 62 completed the study. The changes from baseline in glycated hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, and bodyweight (mean ± SE) were -0.68 ± 0.10%, -32.1 ± 3.6 mg/dL and -2.71 ± 0.24 kg at week 52, respectively (all, P < 0.001 vs baseline). Luseogliflozin was associated with greater reductions in fat mass than lean mass at all measuring points (n = 22): fat vs lean mass changes (mean ± SE) at week 52 were -2.49 ± 0.45 kg (P < 0.001 vs baseline) and -0.44 ± 0.26 kg (P = 0.107 vs baseline), respectively. Insulin secretion and Matsuda Index were also improved at weeks 12 and 52 compared with baseline. Adverse events and adverse drug reactions occurred in 65.8 and 27.6% of patients, respectively. The overall safety profile, including frequency of hypoglycemia, was found to be consistent with those of previous studies and there were no new safety concerns.

CONCLUSIONS

Luseogliflozin added to liraglutide was well tolerated, and improved glycemic control with bodyweight and fat mass reductions in Japanese type 2 diabetes patients.

Luseogliflozin improves liver fat deposition compared to metformin in type 2 diabetes patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A prospective randomized controlled pilot study

This study aimed to assess the effect of luseogliflozin on liver fat deposition and compare luseogliflozin to metformin in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Thirty-two T2D patients with NAFLD diagnosed by computed tomography or abdominal sonography were recruited. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either luseogliflozin (2.5 mg, newly administered) or metformin (1500 mg, newly or additionally administrated). Data on the liver-to-spleen attenuation ratio (L/S), visceral fat area, body mass index, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), fasting plasma glucose, C-peptide immunoreactivity (CPR), and CPR index were collected at baseline and after 6 months. The change in L/S was significantly greater in the luseogliflozin group than in the metformin group. Similarly, the changes in the visceral fat area, HbA1c, and body mass index were significantly greater in the luseogliflozin group than in the metformin group. The changes in ALT, fasting glucose, CPR, and CPR index were not significant in both groups. In conclusion, luseogliflozin significantly reduced liver fat deposition as compared to metformin, which may indicate clinical relevant benefits for NAFLD.

The Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Sympathetic Nervous Activity

The EMPA-REG OUTCOME study revealed that a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, empagliflozin, can remarkably reduce cardiovascular (CV) mortality and heart failure in patients with high-risk type 2 diabetes. Recently, the CANVAS program also showed that canagliflozin, another SGLT2 inhibitor, induces a lower risk of CV events. However, the precise mechanism by which an SGLT2 inhibitor elicits CV protective effects is still unclear. Possible sympathoinhibitory effects of SGLT2 inhibitor have been suggested, as significant blood pressure (BP) reduction, following treatment with an SGLT2 inhibitor, did not induce compensatory changes in heart rate (HR). We have begun to characterize the effects of SGLT2 inhibitor on BP and sympathetic nervous activity (SNA) in salt-treated obese and metabolic syndrome rats, who develop hypertension with an abnormal circadian rhythm of BP, a non-dipper type of hypertension, and do not exhibit a circadian rhythm of SNA. Treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors significantly decreased BP and normalized circadian rhythms of both BP and SNA, but did not change HR; this treatment was also associated with an increase in urinary sodium excretion. Taken together, these data suggest that an SGLT2 inhibitor decreases BP by normalizing the circadian rhythms of BP and SNA, which may be the source of its beneficial effects on CV outcome in high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes. In this review, we briefly summarize the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on BP and HR, with a special emphasis on SNA.

Dapagliflozin improves treatment satisfaction in overweight patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a patient reported outcome study (PRO study)

BACKGROUND

The benefits of sodium glucose cotransporters 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus include plasma glucose control, reduction in body weight and blood pressure, and low risk of hypoglycemia, although they may also cause genitourinary infections, polyuria, or volume depletion. It is not clear whether dapagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, improves treatment satisfaction among patients in a comprehensive way despite the negative side effects. This study assessed the effect of dapagliflozin on glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, and treatment satisfaction in overweight patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents.

METHODS

This multicenter, open-label, single-arm observational study included patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus administering dapagliflozin 5 or 10 mg per day for 14 weeks. Changes in treatment satisfaction were evaluated using a new version of the Oral Hypoglycemic Agent-Questionnaire (OHA-Q ver. 2) consisting of 23 items. Correlation between treatment satisfaction and HbA1c levels and body weight were analyzed using the Spearman's rank-correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Of the 221 patients enrolled, 188 completed the study. Mean HbA1c decreased from 7.8 ± 0.7% (62.1 ± 7.5 mmol/mol) to 7.3 ± 0.8% (55.9 ± 8.7 mmol/mol) (change - 0.6 ± 0.7%, P < 0.001) and body weight decreased from 82.5 ± 14.6 to 80.7 ± 14.8 kg (change - 2.3 ± 2.8 kg, P < 0.001). OHA-Q ver. 2 was validated as well, the mean OHA-Q ver. 2 total score increased from 44.3 ± 9.4 to 46.6 ± 9.8 (best score 69, worst score 0; change 2.3 ± 6.6, P < 0.001). The change in body weight significantly correlated with the OHA-Q ver. 2 total score (Spearman's ρ = - 0.17, P = 0.035). The change in HbA1c levels significantly correlated with the satisfaction subscale score (Spearman's ρ = - 0.19, P = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin significantly improved treatment satisfaction among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for 14 weeks. Body weight loss significantly correlated with treatment satisfaction.Trial registration UMIN-CTR: UMIN000016304.

Resolving the KgA1c paradox in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Excess body weight is a leading cause of metabolic complications such as hypertension and dyslipidemia in T2DM patients. Available antihyperglycemic agents have minimal or no impact on these complications and a majority are known to trigger weight gain, thereby exerting a paradoxical effect on overall metabolic status. This review introduces the concept of 'KgA1c paradox' and underscores the significance of resolving this paradox for comprehensive T2DM management. It provides a therapeutic rationale for inclusion of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in the T2DM treatment algorithm as these agents have demonstrated favorable glycemic effects along with reduction in body weight.

The roles of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in preventing kidney injury in diabetes

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of end stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide. The early effective treatment of high plasma glucose could delay or prevent the onset of DN. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are new target treatments for ameliorating high plasma glucose and help to maintain glucose homeostasis in diabetic patients. Reduced renal glucose reabsorption by SGLT2 inhibition seems to have high potential to improve glycemic control in diabetes mellitus (DM) not only through glucose lowering but also through glucose-independent effects such as blood pressure-lowering and direct renal effects in diabetes. Of note, the important events in the pathogenesis of glucose-induced renal injury and DN including oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis and apoptosis conditions have shown to be ameliorate after the treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors. Interestingly, SGLT2 inhibitors have been reported to reduce albuminuria in DM via an activation of renal tubuloglomerular feedback by increased macula densa sodium and chloride delivery, leading to afferent vasoconstriction and attenuated diabetes-induced renal hyperfiltration. These effects also help to conserve glomerular integrity. Thus, the treatment of diabetes mellitus using SGLT2 inhibitors could be one of the effective approach for the management of diabetic-associated kidney disease like DN. This review summarizes the up to date information and discusses the bidirectional relationship between the SGLT2 inhibitor treatments and the renal functions that are available from both basic research and clinical reports. The details of renal outcomes of SGLT2 inhibitors in DN are also provide in this review.

Effect of a selective SGLT2 inhibitor, luseogliflozin, on circadian rhythm of sympathetic nervous function and locomotor activities in metabolic syndrome rats

Metabolic syndrome is often associated with disruption of circadian rhythm of systemic haemodynamics and cardiovascular disease. Experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of luseogliflozin, a selective SGLT2 inhibitor, on circadian rhythm of sympathetic nervous function and locomotor activity (LA) in metabolic syndrome rats. The difference in the low frequency component of systolic blood pressure between the dark and light period significantly increased in the luseogliflozin-treated SHRcp. LA also increased in the dark period compared with the light period following luseogliflozin treatment. These data suggest that circadian rhythm of sympathetic nervous function and LA is improved by luseogliflozin in metabolic syndrome rats, which may contribute to SGLT2 inhibitor-induced improvement of cardiovascular outcomes.

Luseogliflozin reduces epicardial fat accumulation in patients with type 2 diabetes: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Accumulation of epicardial fat (EF) is associated with increased cardio-metabolic risks and coronary events, independently of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Therefore, the reduction of EF volume (EFV) may be associated with reduced cardio-metabolic risks and future cardiovascular events. Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce body fat including visceral fat and cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, it has still been unknown whether SGLT2 inhibitors can reduce EFV.

METHODS

Type 2 diabetic patients with HbA1c 6.5-9.0% and body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) ≥25.0 were enrolled in this single arm pilot study. Participants were administered luseogliflozin 2.5 mg daily and the dosage was tolerated to be increased up to 5.0 mg daily. EFV [median (interquartile range), cm3] was measured by magnetic resonance imaging. Primary endpoint was the decrease in EFV at 12 weeks. Visceral fat area (VFA, cm2) and liver attenuation index (LAI) measured by the abdominal computed tomography, and skeletal muscle index (SMI) and body fat (%) measured by the whole body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were also determined at baseline and at 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients (mean age: 55 ± 12 years; 26% female) completed this study. Luseogliflozin treatment significantly reduced EFV at 12 weeks [117 (96-136) to 111 (88-134), p = 0.048]. The body weight, BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglycerides, SMI, and body fat were significantly reduced by luseogliflozin at 12 weeks. The reduction of EFV was significantly correlated with the reduction of C-reactive protein (r = 0.493, p = 0.019). Neither VFA nor LAI were significantly reduced by the luseogliflozin treatment. No severe adverse events were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that luseogliflozin could reduce the EFV in parallel with the improvement of systemic micro-inflammation and the reduction of body weight in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes. The reduction of muscle mass after the administration of SGLT2 inhibitors may require a particular attention. Trial registration umin.ac.jp, UMIN000019072.