The role of endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases in type 1 diabetes mellitus

Differences in F pocket impact on HLA I genetic associations with autoimmune diabetes

Introduction

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) I molecules present antigenic peptides to activate CD8+ T cells. Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an auto-immune disease caused by aberrant activation of the CD8+ T cells that destroy insulin-producing pancreatic β cells. Some HLA I alleles were shown to increase the risk of T1D (T1D-predisposing alleles), while some reduce this risk (T1D-protective alleles).

Methods

Here, we compared the T1D-predisposing and T1D-protective allotypes concerning peptide binding, maturation, localization and surface expression and correlated it with their sequences and energetic profiles using experimental and computational methods.

Results

T1D-predisposing allotypes had more peptide-bound forms and higher plasma membrane levels than T1D-protective allotypes. This was related to the fact that position 116 within the F pocket was more conserved and made more optimal contacts with the neighboring residues in T1D-predisposing allotypes than in protective allotypes.

Conclusion

Our work uncovers that specific polymorphisms in HLA I molecules potentially influence their susceptibility to T1D.

Novel gene-based therapeutic approaches for the management of hepatic complications in diabetes: Reviewing recent advances

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by hyperglycemia and systemic complications, including hepatic dysfunction, significantly contributing to disease progression and morbidity. This article reviews recent advances in gene-based therapeutic strategies targeting hepatic complications in diabetes, offering a promising approach for precision medicine by addressing underlying molecular mechanisms. Traditional treatments for hepatic complications in diabetes often manage symptoms rather than molecular causes, showing limited efficacy. Gene-based therapies are poised to correct dysfunctional pathways and restore hepatic function. Fundamental gene therapy approaches include gene silencing via small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to target hepatic glucose production, lipid metabolism, and inflammation. Viral vectors can restore insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress in diabetic livers. Genome editing, especially CRISPR-Cas9, allows the precise modification of disease-associated genes, offering immense potential for hepatic complication treatment. Strategies using CRISPR-Cas9 to enhance insulin receptor expression and modulate aberrant lipid regulatory genes are explored. Safety challenges in gene-based therapies, such as off-target effects and immune responses, are discussed. Advances in nanoparticle-based delivery systems and targeted gene editing techniques offer solutions to enhance specificity and minimize adverse effects. In conclusion, gene-based therapeutic approaches are a transformative direction in managing hepatic complications in diabetes. Further research is needed to optimize efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes. Nevertheless, these innovative strategies promise to improve the lives of individuals with diabetes by addressing hepatic dysfunction's genetic root causes.