Renalase inhibition regulates β cell metabolism to defend against acute and chronic stress

Renalase (Rnls), annotated as an oxidase enzyme, is a GWAS gene associated with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) risk. We previously discovered that Rnls inhibition delays diabetes onset in mouse models of T1D in vivo , and protects pancreatic β cells against autoimmune killing, ER and oxidative stress in vitro . The molecular biochemistry and functions of Rnls are entirely uncharted. Here we find that Rnls inhibition defends against loss of β cell mass and islet dysfunction in chronically stressed Akita mice in vivo . We used RNA sequencing, untargeted and targeted metabolomics and metabolic function experiments in mouse and human β cells and discovered a robust and conserved metabolic shift towards glycolysis, amino acid abundance and GSH synthesis to counter protein misfolding stress, in vitro . Our work illustrates a function for Rnls in mammalian cells, and suggests an axis by which manipulating intrinsic properties of β cells can rewire metabolism to protect against diabetogenic stress.

Unique features of β-cell metabolism are lost in type 2 diabetes

Pancreatic β cells play an essential role in the control of systemic glucose homeostasis as they sense blood glucose levels and respond by secreting insulin. Upon stimulating glucose uptake in insulin-sensitive tissues post-prandially, this anabolic hormone restores blood glucose levels to pre-prandial levels. Maintaining physiological glucose levels thus relies on proper β-cell function. To fulfill this highly specialized nutrient sensor role, β cells have evolved a unique genetic program that shapes its distinct cellular metabolism. In this review, the unique genetic and metabolic features of β cells will be outlined, including their alterations in type 2 diabetes (T2D). β cells selectively express a set of genes in a cell type-specific manner; for instance, the glucose activating hexokinase IV enzyme or Glucokinase (GCK), whereas other genes are selectively "disallowed", including lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1). This selective gene program equips β cells with a unique metabolic apparatus to ensure that nutrient metabolism is coupled to appropriate insulin secretion, thereby avoiding hyperglycemia, as well as life-threatening hypoglycemia. Unlike most cell types, β cells exhibit specialized bioenergetic features, including supply-driven rather than demand-driven metabolism and a high basal mitochondrial proton leak respiration. The understanding of these unique genetically programmed metabolic features and their alterations that lead to β-cell dysfunction is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of T2D pathophysiology and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches for T2D patients.

Checkpoint kinase 2 controls insulin secretion and glucose homeostasis

After the discovery of insulin, a century ago, extensive work has been done to unravel the molecular network regulating insulin secretion. Here we performed a chemical screen and identified AZD7762, a compound that potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) of a human β cell line, healthy and type 2 diabetic (T2D) human islets and primary cynomolgus macaque islets. In vivo studies in diabetic mouse models and cynomolgus macaques demonstrated that AZD7762 enhances GSIS and improves glucose tolerance. Furthermore, genetic manipulation confirmed that ablation of CHEK2 in human β cells results in increased insulin secretion. Consistently, high-fat-diet-fed Chk2-/- mice show elevated insulin secretion and improved glucose clearance. Finally, untargeted metabolic profiling demonstrated the key role of the CHEK2-PP2A-PLK1-G6PD-PPP pathway in insulin secretion. This study successfully identifies a previously unknown insulin secretion regulating pathway that is conserved across rodents, cynomolgus macaques and human β cells in both healthy and T2D conditions.

The Role of G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Receptor Kinases in Pancreatic β-Cell Function and Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) mellitus has emerged as a major global health concern that has accelerated in recent years due to poor diet and lifestyle. Afflicted individuals have high blood glucose levels that stem from the inability of the pancreas to make enough insulin to meet demand. Although medication can help to maintain normal blood glucose levels in individuals with chronic disease, many of these medicines are outdated, have severe side effects, and often become less efficacious over time, necessitating the need for insulin therapy. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate many physiologic processes, including blood glucose levels. In pancreatic β cells, GPCRs regulate β-cell growth, apoptosis, and insulin secretion, which are all critical in maintaining sufficient β-cell mass and insulin output to ensure euglycemia. In recent years, new insights into the signaling of incretin receptors and other GPCRs have underscored the potential of these receptors as desirable targets in the treatment of diabetes. The signaling of these receptors is modulated by GPCR kinases (GRKs) that phosphorylate agonist-activated GPCRs, marking the receptor for arrestin binding and internalization. Interestingly, genome-wide association studies using diabetic patient cohorts link the GRKs and arrestins with T2D. Moreover, recent reports show that GRKs and arrestins expressed in the β cell serve a critical role in the regulation of β-cell function, including β-cell growth and insulin secretion in both GPCR-dependent and -independent pathways. In this review, we describe recent insights into GPCR signaling and the importance of GRK function in modulating β-cell physiology. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Pancreatic β cells contain a diverse array of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that have been shown to improve β-cell function and survival, yet only a handful have been successfully targeted in the treatment of diabetes. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding of β-cell GPCR pharmacology and regulation by GPCR kinases while also highlighting the necessity of investigating islet-enriched GPCRs that have largely been unexplored to unveil novel treatment strategies.

Dysregulation of acyl carnitines, pentose phosphate pathway and arginine and ornithine metabolism are associated with decline in intrinsic capacity in Chinese older adults

BACKGROUND

Intrinsic capacity is the combination of individual physical and mental abilities, reflecting the aging degree of the older adults. However, the mechanisms and metabolic characteristics of the decline in intrinsic capacity are still unclear.

AIMS

To identify metabolic signatures and associated pathways of decline in intrinsic capacity based on the metabolite features.

METHODS

We recruited 70 participants aged 77.19 ± 8.31 years. The five domains of intrinsic capacity were assessed by Short Physical Performance Battery (for mobility), Montreal cognition assessment (for cognition), 30-Item Geriatric Depression Scale (for psychology), self-reported hearing/visual impairment (for sensory) and Nutritional risk screening (for vitality), respectively. The serum samples of participants were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics, followed by metabolite set enrichment analysis and metabolic pathway analysis.

RESULTS

There were 50 participants with a decline in intrinsic capacity in at least one of the domains. A total of 349 metabolites were identified from their serum samples. Overall, 24 differential metabolites, 5 metabolite sets and 13 pathways were associated with the decline in intrinsic capacity.

DISCUSSION

Our results indicated that decline in intrinsic capacity had unique metabolomic profiles.

CONCLUSION

The specific change of acyl carnitines was observed to be a feature of decline in intrinsic capacity. Dysregulation of the pentose phosphate pathway and of arginine and ornithine metabolism was strongly associated with the decline in intrinsic capacity.

NADPH Dynamics: Linking Insulin Resistance and β-Cells Ferroptosis in Diabetes Mellitus

This review offers an in-depth exploration of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH) in metabolic health. It delves into how NADPH affects insulin secretion, influences insulin resistance, and plays a role in ferroptosis. NADPH, a critical cofactor in cellular antioxidant systems and lipid synthesis, plays a central role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. In adipocytes and skeletal muscle, NADPH influences the pathophysiology of insulin resistance, a hallmark of metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. The review explores the mechanisms by which NADPH contributes to or mitigates insulin resistance, including its role in lipid and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism. Parallelly, the paper investigates the dual nature of NADPH in the context of pancreatic β-cell health, particularly in its relation to ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of programmed cell death. While NADPH's antioxidative properties are crucial for preventing oxidative damage in β-cells, its involvement in lipid metabolism can potentiate ferroptotic pathways under certain pathological conditions. This complex relationship underscores the delicate balance of NADPH homeostasis in pancreatic health and diabetes pathogenesis. By integrating findings from recent studies, this review aims to illuminate the nuanced roles of NADPH in different tissues and its potential as a therapeutic target. Understanding these dynamics offers vital insights into the development of more effective strategies for managing insulin resistance and preserving pancreatic β-cell function, thereby advancing the treatment of metabolic diseases.

Pitfalls of Mitochondrial Redox Signaling Research

Redox signaling from mitochondria (mt) to the cytosol and plasma membrane (PM) has been scarcely reported, such as in the case of hypoxic cell adaptation or (2-oxo-) 2-keto-isocaproate (KIC) β-like-oxidation stimulating insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells. Mutual redox state influence between mitochondrial major compartments, the matrix and the intracristal space, and the cytosol is therefore derived theoretically in this article to predict possible conditions, when mt-to-cytosol and mt-to-PM signals may occur, as well as conditions in which the cytosolic redox signaling is not overwhelmed by the mitochondrial antioxidant capacity. Possible peroxiredoxin 3 participation in mt-to-cytosol redox signaling is discussed, as well as another specific case, whereby mitochondrial superoxide release is diminished, whereas the matrix MnSOD is activated. As a result, the enhanced conversion to H2O2 allows H2O2 diffusion into the cytosol, where it could be a predominant component of the H2O2 release. In both of these ways, mt-to-cytosol and mt-to-PM signals may be realized. Finally, the use of redox-sensitive probes is discussed, which disturb redox equilibria, and hence add a surplus redox-buffering to the compartment, where they are localized. Specifically, when attempts to quantify net H2O2 fluxes are to be made, this should be taken into account.

Aberrant metabolite trafficking and fuel sensitivity in human pluripotent stem cell-derived islets

Pancreatic islets regulate blood glucose homeostasis through the controlled release of insulin; however, current metabolic models of glucose-sensitive insulin secretion are incomplete. A comprehensive understanding of islet metabolism is integral to studies of endocrine cell development as well as diabetic islet dysfunction. Human pluripotent stem cell-derived islets (SC-islets) are a developmentally relevant model of human islet function that have great potential in providing a cure for type 1 diabetes. Using multiple 13C-labeled metabolic fuels, we demonstrate that SC-islets show numerous divergent patterns of metabolite trafficking in proposed insulin release pathways compared with primary human islets but are still reliant on mitochondrial aerobic metabolism to derive function. Furthermore, reductive tricarboxylic acid cycle activity and glycolytic metabolite cycling occur in SC-islets, suggesting that non-canonical coupling factors are also present. In aggregate, we show that many facets of SC-islet metabolism overlap with those of primary islets, albeit with a retained immature signature.

A pathway model of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in the pancreatic β-cell

The pancreas plays a critical role in maintaining glucose homeostasis through the secretion of hormones from the islets of Langerhans. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) by the pancreatic β-cell is the main mechanism for reducing elevated plasma glucose. Here we present a systematic modeling workflow for the development of kinetic pathway models using the Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML). Steps include retrieval of information from databases, curation of experimental and clinical data for model calibration and validation, integration of heterogeneous data including absolute and relative measurements, unit normalization, data normalization, and model annotation. An important factor was the reproducibility and exchangeability of the model, which allowed the use of various existing tools. The workflow was applied to construct a novel data-driven kinetic model of GSIS in the pancreatic β-cell based on experimental and clinical data from 39 studies spanning 50 years of pancreatic, islet, and β-cell research in humans, rats, mice, and cell lines. The model consists of detailed glycolysis and phenomenological equations for insulin secretion coupled to cellular energy state, ATP dynamics and (ATP/ADP ratio). Key findings of our work are that in GSIS there is a glucose-dependent increase in almost all intermediates of glycolysis. This increase in glycolytic metabolites is accompanied by an increase in energy metabolites, especially ATP and NADH. One of the few decreasing metabolites is ADP, which, in combination with the increase in ATP, results in a large increase in ATP/ADP ratios in the β-cell with increasing glucose. Insulin secretion is dependent on ATP/ADP, resulting in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. The observed glucose-dependent increase in glycolytic intermediates and the resulting change in ATP/ADP ratios and insulin secretion is a robust phenomenon observed across data sets, experimental systems and species. Model predictions of the glucose-dependent response of glycolytic intermediates and biphasic insulin secretion are in good agreement with experimental measurements. Our model predicts that factors affecting ATP consumption, ATP formation, hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, and ATP/ADP-dependent insulin secretion have a major effect on GSIS. In conclusion, we have developed and applied a systematic modeling workflow for pathway models that allowed us to gain insight into key mechanisms in GSIS in the pancreatic β-cell.

Cognitive dysfunction in diabetes: abnormal glucose metabolic regulation in the brain

Cognitive dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a complication and comorbidity of diabetes, supported by evidence of abnormal brain structure and function. Although few mechanistic metabolic studies have shown clear pathophysiological links between diabetes and cognitive dysfunction, there are several plausible ways in which this connection may occur. Since, brain functions require a constant supply of glucose as an energy source, the brain may be more susceptible to abnormalities in glucose metabolism. Glucose metabolic abnormalities under diabetic conditions may play an important role in cognitive dysfunction by affecting glucose transport and reducing glucose metabolism. These changes, along with oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and other factors, can affect synaptic transmission, neural plasticity, and ultimately lead to impaired neuronal and cognitive function. Insulin signal triggers intracellular signal transduction that regulates glucose transport and metabolism. Insulin resistance, one hallmark of diabetes, has also been linked with impaired cerebral glucose metabolism in the brain. In this review, we conclude that glucose metabolic abnormalities play a critical role in the pathophysiological alterations underlying diabetic cognitive dysfunction (DCD), which is associated with multiple pathogenic factors such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and others. Brain insulin resistance is highly emphasized and characterized as an important pathogenic mechanism in the DCD.

A Consensus Model of Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion in the Pancreatic β -Cell

The pancreas plays a critical role in maintaining glucose homeostasis through the secretion of hormones from the islets of Langerhans. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) by the pancreatic β -cell is the main mechanism for reducing elevated plasma glucose. Here we present a systematic modeling workflow for the development of kinetic pathway models using the Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML). Steps include retrieval of information from databases, curation of experimental and clinical data for model calibration and validation, integration of heterogeneous data including absolute and relative measurements, unit normalization, data normalization, and model annotation. An important factor was the reproducibility and exchangeability of the model, which allowed the use of various existing tools. The workflow was applied to construct the first consensus model of GSIS in the pancreatic β -cell based on experimental and clinical data from 39 studies spanning 50 years of pancreatic, islet, and β -cell research in humans, rats, mice, and cell lines. The model consists of detailed glycolysis and equations for insulin secretion coupled to cellular energy state (ATP/ADP ratio). Key findings of our work are that in GSIS there is a glucose-dependent increase in almost all intermediates of glycolysis. This increase in glycolytic metabolites is accompanied by an increase in energy metabolites, especially ATP and NADH. One of the few decreasing metabolites is ADP, which, in combination with the increase in ATP, results in a large increase in ATP/ADP ratios in the β -cell with increasing glucose. Insulin secretion is dependent on ATP/ADP, resulting in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. The observed glucose-dependent increase in glycolytic intermediates and the resulting change in ATP/ADP ratios and insulin secretion is a robust phenomenon observed across data sets, experimental systems and species. Model predictions of the glucose-dependent response of glycolytic intermediates and insulin secretion are in good agreement with experimental measurements. Our model predicts that factors affecting ATP consumption, ATP formation, hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, and ATP/ADP-dependent insulin secretion have a major effect on GSIS. In conclusion, we have developed and applied a systematic modeling workflow for pathway models that allowed us to gain insight into key mechanisms in GSIS in the pancreatic β -cell.

Bidirectional Mendelian randomization study of insulin-related traits and risk of ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

It is well known that the occurrence and development of ovarian cancer are closely related to the patient's weight and various endocrine factors in the body.

AIM

Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to analyze the bidirectional relationship between insulin related characteristics and ovarian cancer.

METHODS

The data on insulin related characteristics are from up to 5567 diabetes free patients from 10 studies, mainly including fasting insulin level, insulin secretion rate, peak insulin response, etc. For ovarian cancer, UK Biobank data just updated in 2021 was selected, of which the relevant gene data was from 199741 Europeans. Mendelian randomization method was selected, with inverse variance weighting (IVW) as the main estimation, while MR Pleiotropy, MR Egger, weighted median and other methods were used to detect the heterogeneity of data and whether there was multi validity affecting conclusions.

RESULTS

Among all insulin related indicators (fasting insulin level, insulin secretion rate, peak insulin response), the insulin secretion rate was selected to have a causal relationship with the occurrence of ovarian cancer (IVW, P < 0.05), that is, the risk of ovarian cancer increased with the decrease of insulin secretion rate. At the same time, we tested the heterogeneity and polymorphism of this indicator, and the results were non-existent, which ensured the accuracy of the analysis results. Reverse causal analysis showed that there was no causal effect between the two (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The impairment of the insulin secretion rate has a causal effect on the risk of ovarian cancer, which was confirmed by Mendel randomization. This suggests that the human glucose metabolism cycle represented by insulin secretion plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer, which provides a new idea for preventing the release of ovarian cancer.

Kinetic and data-driven modeling of pancreatic β-cell central carbon metabolism and insulin secretion

Pancreatic β-cells respond to increased extracellular glucose levels by initiating a metabolic shift. That change in metabolism is part of the process of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and is of particular interest in the context of diabetes. However, we do not fully understand how the coordinated changes in metabolic pathways and metabolite products influence insulin secretion. In this work, we apply systems biology approaches to develop a detailed kinetic model of the intracellular central carbon metabolic pathways in pancreatic β-cells upon stimulation with high levels of glucose. The model is calibrated to published metabolomics datasets for the INS1 823/13 cell line, accurately capturing the measured metabolite fold-changes. We first employed the calibrated mechanistic model to estimate the stimulated cell's fluxome. We then used the predicted network fluxes in a data-driven approach to build a partial least squares regression model. By developing the combined kinetic and data-driven modeling framework, we gain insights into the link between β-cell metabolism and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. The combined modeling framework was used to predict the effects of common anti-diabetic pharmacological interventions on metabolite levels, flux through the metabolic network, and insulin secretion. Our simulations reveal targets that can be modulated to enhance insulin secretion. The model is a promising tool to contextualize and extend the usefulness of metabolomics data and to predict dynamics and metabolite levels that are difficult to measure in vitro. In addition, the modeling framework can be applied to identify, explain, and assess novel and clinically-relevant interventions that may be particularly valuable in diabetes treatment.

A Direct Infusion Probe for Rapid Metabolomics of Low-Volume Samples

Targeted and nontargeted metabolomics has the potential to evaluate and detect global metabolite changes in biological systems. Direct infusion mass spectrometric analysis enables detection of all ionizable small molecules, thus simultaneously providing information on both metabolites and lipids in chemically complex samples. However, to unravel the heterogeneity of the metabolic status of cells in culture and tissue a low number of cells per sample should be analyzed with high sensitivity, which requires low sample volumes. Here, we present the design and characterization of the direct infusion probe, DIP. The DIP is simple to build and position directly in front of a mass spectrometer for rapid metabolomics of chemically complex biological samples using pneumatically assisted electrospray ionization at 1 μL/min flow rate. The resulting data is acquired in a square wave profile with minimal carryover between samples that enhances throughput and enables several minutes of uniform MS signal from 5 μL sample volumes. The DIP was applied to study the intracellular metabolism of insulin secreting INS-1 cells and the results show that exposure to 20 mM glucose for 15 min significantly alters the abundance of several small metabolites, amino acids, and lipids.

Metabolic cycles and signals for insulin secretion

In this review, we focus on recent developments in our understanding of nutrient-induced insulin secretion that challenge a key aspect of the "canonical" model, in which an oxidative phosphorylation-driven rise in ATP production closes K_ATP channels. We discuss the importance of intrinsic β cell metabolic oscillations; the phasic alignment of relevant metabolic cycles, shuttles, and shunts; and how their temporal and compartmental relationships align with the triggering phase or the secretory phase of pulsatile insulin secretion. Metabolic signaling components are assigned regulatory, effectory, and/or homeostatic roles vis-à-vis their contribution to glucose sensing, signal transmission, and resetting the system. Taken together, these functions provide a framework for understanding how allostery, anaplerosis, and oxidative metabolism are integrated into the oscillatory behavior of the secretory pathway. By incorporating these temporal as well as newly discovered spatial aspects of β cell metabolism, we propose a much-refined Mito_Cat-Mito_Ox model of the signaling process for the field to evaluate.

Metabolism-secretion coupling in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion

Pancreatic β-cells in the islets of Langerhans secrete insulin in response to blood glucose levels. Precise control of the amount of insulin secreted is of critical importance for maintaining systemic carbohydrate homeostasis. It is now well established that glucose induced production of ATP from ADP and the K_ATP channel closure elevate cytosolic Ca²⁺, triggering insulin exocytosis in β-cells. However, for full activation of insulin secretion by glucose, other mechanisms besides Ca²⁺ elevation are needed. These mechanisms are the targets of current research and include intracellular metabolic pathways branching from glycolysis. They are metabolic pathways originating from the TCA cycle intermediates, the glycerolipid/free fatty acid cycle and the pentose phosphate pathway. Signaling effects of these pathways including degradation (removal) of protein SUMOylation, modulation of insulin vesicular energetics, and lipid modulation of exocytotic machinery may converge to fulfill insulin secretion, though the precise mechanisms have yet to be elucidated. This mini-review summarize recent advances in research on metabolic coupling mechanisms functioning in insulin secretion.

Small Molecule-mediated Insulin Hypersecretion Induces Transient ER Stress Response and Loss of Beta Cell Function

Pancreatic islet beta cells require a fine-tuned endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response for normal function; abnormal ER stress contributes to diabetes pathogenesis. Here, we identified a small molecule, SW016789, with time-dependent effects on beta cell ER stress and function. Acute treatment with SW016789 potentiated nutrient-induced calcium influx and insulin secretion, while chronic exposure to SW016789 transiently induced ER stress and shut down secretory function in a reversible manner. Distinct from the effects of thapsigargin, SW016789 did not affect beta cell viability or apoptosis, potentially due to a rapid induction of adaptive genes, weak signaling through the eIF2α kinase PERK, and lack of oxidative stress gene Txnip induction. We determined that SW016789 acted upstream of voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs) and potentiated nutrient- but not KCl-stimulated calcium influx. Measurements of metabolomics, oxygen consumption rate, and G protein-coupled receptor signaling did not explain the potentiating effects of SW016789. In chemical cotreatment experiments, we discovered synergy between SW016789 and activators of protein kinase C and VDCCs, suggesting involvement of these pathways in the mechanism of action. Finally, chronically elevated calcium influx was required for the inhibitory impact of SW016789, as blockade of VDCCs protected human islets and MIN6 beta cells from hypersecretion-induced dysfunction. We conclude that beta cells undergoing this type of pharmacological hypersecretion have the capacity to suppress their function to mitigate ER stress and avoid apoptosis. These results have the potential to uncover beta cell ER stress mitigation factors and add support to beta cell rest strategies to preserve function.

Maturation of beta cells: lessons from in vivo and in vitro models

The ability to maintain normoglycaemia, through glucose-sensitive insulin release, is a key aspect of postnatal beta cell function. However, terminally differentiated beta cell identity does not necessarily imply functional maturity. Beta cell maturation is therefore a continuation of beta cell development, albeit a process that occurs postnatally in mammals. Although many important features have been identified in the study of beta cell maturation, as of yet no unified mechanistic model of beta cell functional maturity exists. Here, we review recent findings about the underlying mechanisms of beta cell functional maturation. These findings include systemic hormonal and nutritional triggers that operate through energy-sensing machinery shifts within beta cells, resulting in primed metabolic states that allow for appropriate glucose trafficking and, ultimately, insulin release. We also draw attention to the expansive synergistic nature of these pathways and emphasise that beta cell maturation is dependent on overlapping regulatory and metabolic networks.

More than meets the islet: aligning nutrient and paracrine inputs with hormone secretion in health and disease

The pancreatic islet is responsive to an array of endocrine, paracrine, and nutritional inputs that adjust hormone secretion to ensure accurate control of glucose homeostasis. Although the mechanisms governing glucose-coupled insulin secretion have received the most attention, there is emerging evidence for a multitude of physiological signaling pathways and paracrine networks that collectively regulate insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin release. Moreover, the modulation of these pathways in conditions of glucotoxicity or lipotoxicity are areas of both growing interest and controversy. In this review, the contributions of external, intrinsic, and paracrine factors in pancreatic β-, α-, and δ-cell secretion across the full spectrum of physiological (i.e., fasting and fed) and pathophysiological (gluco- and lipotoxicity; diabetes) environments will be critically discussed.

Contribution of Mitochondria to Insulin Secretion by Various Secretagogues

Significance: Mitochondria determine glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in pancreatic β-cells by elevating ATP synthesis. As the metabolic and redox hub, mitochondria provide numerous links to the plasma membrane channels, insulin granule vesicles (IGVs), cell redox, NADH, NADPH, and Ca²⁺ homeostasis, all affecting insulin secretion. Recent Advances: Mitochondrial redox signaling was implicated in several modes of insulin secretion (branched-chain ketoacid [BCKA]-, fatty acid [FA]-stimulated). Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ influx was found to enhance GSIS, reflecting cytosolic Ca²⁺ oscillations induced by action potential spikes (intermittent opening of voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ and K⁺ channels) or the superimposed Ca²⁺ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The ATPase inhibitory factor 1 (IF1) was reported to tune the glucose sensitivity range for GSIS. Mitochondrial protein kinase A was implicated in preventing the IF1-mediated inhibition of the ATP synthase. Critical Issues: It is unknown how the redox signal spreads up to the plasma membrane and what its targets are, what the differences in metabolic, redox, NADH/NADPH, and Ca²⁺ signaling, and homeostasis are between the first and second GSIS phase, and whether mitochondria can replace ER in the amplification of IGV exocytosis. Future Directions: Metabolomics studies performed to distinguish between the mitochondrial matrix and cytosolic metabolites will elucidate further details. Identifying the targets of cell signaling into mitochondria and of mitochondrial retrograde metabolic and redox signals to the cell will uncover further molecular mechanisms for insulin secretion stimulated by glucose, BCKAs, and FAs, and the amplification of secretion by glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) and metabotropic receptors. They will identify the distinction between the hub β-cells and their followers in intact and diabetic states. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 920-952.

Precursor Quantitation Methods for Next Generation Food Production

Food is essential for human survival. Nowadays, traditional agriculture faces challenges in balancing the need of sustainable environmental development and the rising food demand caused by an increasing population. In addition, in the emerging of consumers' awareness of health related issues bring a growing trend towards novel nature-based food additives. Synthetic biology, using engineered microbial cell factories for production of various molecules, shows great advantages for generating food alternatives and additives, which not only relieve the pressure laid on tradition agriculture, but also create a new stage in healthy and sustainable food supplement. The biosynthesis of food components (protein, fats, carbohydrates or vitamins) in engineered microbial cells often involves cellular central metabolic pathways, where common precursors are processed into different proteins and products. Quantitation of the precursors provides information of the metabolic flux and intracellular metabolic state, giving guidance for precise pathway engineering. In this review, we summarized the quantitation methods for most cellular biosynthetic precursors, including energy molecules and co-factors involved in redox-reactions. It will also be useful for studies worked on pathway engineering of other microbial-derived metabolites. Finally, advantages and limitations of each method are discussed.

Nutrient Regulation of Pancreatic Islet β-Cell Secretory Capacity and Insulin Production

Pancreatic islet β-cells exhibit tremendous plasticity for secretory adaptations that coordinate insulin production and release with nutritional demands. This essential feature of the β-cell can allow for compensatory changes that increase secretory output to overcome insulin resistance early in Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Nutrient-stimulated increases in proinsulin biosynthesis may initiate this β-cell adaptive compensation; however, the molecular regulators of secretory expansion that accommodate the increased biosynthetic burden of packaging and producing additional insulin granules, such as enhanced ER and Golgi functions, remain poorly defined. As these adaptive mechanisms fail and T2D progresses, the β-cell succumbs to metabolic defects resulting in alterations to glucose metabolism and a decline in nutrient-regulated secretory functions, including impaired proinsulin processing and a deficit in mature insulin-containing secretory granules. In this review, we will discuss how the adaptative plasticity of the pancreatic islet β-cell's secretory program allows insulin production to be carefully matched with nutrient availability and peripheral cues for insulin signaling. Furthermore, we will highlight potential defects in the secretory pathway that limit or delay insulin granule biosynthesis, which may contribute to the decline in β-cell function during the pathogenesis of T2D.

Glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit 2 negatively regulates glucose oxidation and insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells

Elevated fasting blood glucose (FBG) is associated with increased risks of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular-associated mortality. G6PC2 is predominantly expressed in islets, encodes a glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit that converts glucose-6-phosphate (G6P) to glucose, and has been linked with variations in FBG in genome-wide association studies. Deletion of G6pc2 in mice has been shown to lower FBG without affecting fasting plasma insulin levels in vivo. At 5 mM glucose, pancreatic islets from G6pc2 knockout (KO) mice exhibit no glucose cycling, increased glycolytic flux, and enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). However, the broader effects of G6pc2 KO on β-cell metabolism and redox regulation are unknown. Here we used CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and metabolic flux analysis in βTC3 cells, a murine pancreatic β-cell line, to examine the role of G6pc2 in regulating glycolytic and mitochondrial fluxes. We found that deletion of G6pc2 led to ∼60% increases in glycolytic and citric acid cycle (CAC) fluxes at both 5 and 11 mM glucose concentrations. Furthermore, intracellular insulin content and GSIS were enhanced by approximately two-fold, along with increased cytosolic redox potential and reductive carboxylation flux. Normalization of fluxes relative to net glucose uptake revealed upregulation in two NADPH-producing pathways in the CAC. These results demonstrate that G6pc2 regulates GSIS by modulating not only glycolysis but also, independently, citric acid cycle activity in β-cells. Overall, our findings implicate G6PC2 as a potential therapeutic target for enhancing insulin secretion and lowering FBG, which could benefit individuals with prediabetes, T2D, and obesity.

Metabolic Adaptions/Reprogramming in Islet Beta-Cells in Response to Physiological Stimulators—What Are the Consequences

Irreversible pancreatic β-cell damage may be a result of chronic exposure to supraphysiological glucose or lipid concentrations or chronic exposure to therapeutic anti-diabetic drugs. The β-cells are able to respond to blood glucose in a narrow concentration range and release insulin in response, following activation of metabolic pathways such as glycolysis and the TCA cycle. The β-cell cannot protect itself from glucose toxicity by blocking glucose uptake, but indeed relies on alternative metabolic protection mechanisms to avoid dysfunction and death. Alteration of normal metabolic pathway function occurs as a counter regulatory response to high nutrient, inflammatory factor, hormone or therapeutic drug concentrations. Metabolic reprogramming is a term widely used to describe a change in regulation of various metabolic enzymes and transporters, usually associated with cell growth and proliferation and may involve reshaping epigenetic responses, in particular the acetylation and methylation of histone proteins and DNA. Other metabolic modifications such as Malonylation, Succinylation, Hydroxybutyrylation, ADP-ribosylation, and Lactylation, may impact regulatory processes, many of which need to be investigated in detail to contribute to current advances in metabolism. By describing multiple mechanisms of metabolic adaption that are available to the β-cell across its lifespan, we hope to identify sites for metabolic reprogramming mechanisms, most of which are incompletely described or understood. Many of these mechanisms are related to prominent antioxidant responses. Here, we have attempted to describe the key β-cell metabolic adaptions and changes which are required for survival and function in various physiological, pathological and pharmacological conditions.

The lack of functional nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase only moderately contributes to the impairment of glucose tolerance and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in C57BL/6J vs C57BL/6N mice

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT) is involved in mitochondrial NADPH production and its spontaneous inactivating mutation (Nnt^Tr [Tr, truncated]) is usually considered to be the main cause of the lower glucose tolerance of C57BL/6J vs C57BL/6N mice. However, the impact of this mutation on glucose tolerance remains disputed. Here, we singled out the impact of Nnt^Tr from that of other genetic variants between C57BL/6J and C57BL/6N mice on mitochondrial glutathione redox state (E_GSH), glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) and glucose tolerance.

METHODS

Male and female N5BL/6J mice that express wild-type Nnt (Nnt^WT) or Nnt^Tr (N5-WT and N5-Tr mice) on the C57BL/6J genetic background were obtained by crossing N5BL/6J Nnt^WT/Tr heterozygous mice. C57BL/6J and C57BL/6N mice were from Janvier Labs. The Nnt genotype was confirmed by PCR and the genetic background by whole genome sequencing of one mouse of each type. Glucose tolerance was assessed by IPGTT, ITT and fasting/refeeding tests. Stimulus-secretion coupling events and GSIS were measured in isolated pancreatic islets. Cytosolic and mitochondrial E_GSH were measured using the fluorescent redox probe GRX1-roGFP2 (glutaredoxin 1 fused to redox-sensitive enhanced GFP).

RESULTS

The Nnt genotype and genetic background of each type of mouse were confirmed. As reported previously in C57BL/6N vs C57BL/6J islets, the glucose regulation of mitochondrial (but not cytosolic) E_GSH and of NAD(P)H autofluorescence was markedly improved in N5-WT vs N5-Tr islets, confirming the role of NNT in mitochondrial redox regulation. However, ex vivo GSIS was only 1.2-1.4-times higher in N5-WT vs N5-Tr islets, while it was 2.4-times larger in C57BL/6N vs N5-WT islets, questioning the role of NNT in GSIS. In vivo, the ITT results did not differ between N5-WT and N5-Tr or C57BL/6N mice. However, the glucose excursion during an IPGTT was only 15-20% lower in female N5-WT mice than in N5-Tr and C57BL/6J mice and remained 3.5-times larger than in female C57BL/6N mice. Similar observations were made during a fasting/refeeding test. A slightly larger (~30%) impact of NNT on glucose tolerance was found in males.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Although our results confirm the importance of NNT in the regulation of mitochondrial redox state by glucose, they markedly downsize the role of NNT in the alteration of GSIS and glucose tolerance in C57BL/6J vs C57BL/6N mice. Therefore, documenting an Nnt^WT genotype in C57BL/6 mice does not provide proof that their glucose tolerance is as good as in C57BL/6N mice.

The Controversial Role of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency on Cardiovascular Disease: A Narrative Review

Cardiovascular disorders (CVD) are highly prevalent and the leading cause of death worldwide. Atherosclerosis is responsible for most cases of CVD. The plaque formation and subsequent thrombosis in atherosclerosis constitute an ongoing process that is influenced by numerous risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, smoking, inflammation, and sedentary lifestyle. Among the various risk and protective factors, the role of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, the most common inborn enzyme disorder across populations, is still debated. For decades, it has been considered a protective factor against the development of CVD. However, in the recent years, growing scientific evidence has suggested that this inherited condition may act as a CVD risk factor. The role of G6PD deficiency in the atherogenic process has been investigated using in vitro or ex vivo cellular models, animal models, and epidemiological studies in human cohorts of variable size and across different ethnic groups, with conflicting results. In this review, the impact of G6PD deficiency on CVD was critically reconsidered, taking into account the most recent acquisitions on molecular and biochemical mechanisms, namely, antioxidative mechanisms, glutathione recycling, and nitric oxide production, as well as their mutual interactions, which may be impaired by the enzyme defect in the context of the pentose phosphate pathway. Overall, current evidence supports the notion that G6PD downregulation may favor the onset and evolution of atheroma in subjects at risk of CVD. Given the relatively high frequency of this enzyme deficiency in several regions of the world, this finding might be of practical importance to tailor surveillance guidelines and facilitate risk stratification.

Untargeted metabolomic profiling of serum in dogs with hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is one of the most commonly diagnosed endocrine disease in dogs. The clinical signs are caused by a deficiency of the active thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and have a negative impact on dog's quality of life. We hypothesized that serum metabolic profile varies between healthy dogs and dogs with hypothyroidism. Twenty serum samples from dogs with hypothyroidism and 20 from healthy dogs were used for untargeted metabolomics analysis performed by LC/MS analysis. Fifteen metabolites showed significant changes between hypothyroid and healthy dogs, being the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis and pyrimidine metabolism the principal pathways altered in hypothyroidism. Specifically, metabolites such as D-gluconic acid and L-Isoleucine may potentially act as biomarkers of disease.

The Pancreatic β-Cell: The Perfect Redox System

Pancreatic β-cell insulin secretion, which responds to various secretagogues and hormonal regulations, is reviewed here, emphasizing the fundamental redox signaling by NADPH oxidase 4- (NOX4-) mediated H₂O₂ production for glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). There is a logical summation that integrates both metabolic plus redox homeostasis because the ATP-sensitive K⁺ channel (K_ATP) can only be closed when both ATP and H₂O₂ are elevated. Otherwise ATP would block K_ATP, while H₂O₂ would activate any of the redox-sensitive nonspecific calcium channels (NSCCs), such as TRPM2. Notably, a 100%-closed K_ATP ensemble is insufficient to reach the -50 mV threshold plasma membrane depolarization required for the activation of voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channels. Open synergic NSCCs or Cl^- channels have to act simultaneously to reach this threshold. The resulting intermittent cytosolic Ca²⁺-increases lead to the pulsatile exocytosis of insulin granule vesicles (IGVs). The incretin (e.g., GLP-1) amplification of GSIS stems from receptor signaling leading to activating the phosphorylation of TRPM channels and effects on other channels to intensify integral Ca²⁺-influx (fortified by endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺). ATP plus H₂O₂ are also required for branched-chain ketoacids (BCKAs); and partly for fatty acids (FAs) to secrete insulin, while BCKA or FA β-oxidation provide redox signaling from mitochondria, which proceeds by H₂O₂ diffusion or hypothetical SH relay via peroxiredoxin "redox kiss" to target proteins.

Mechanisms controlling pancreatic islet cell function in insulin secretion

Metabolic homeostasis in mammals is tightly regulated by the complementary actions of insulin and glucagon. The secretion of these hormones from pancreatic β-cells and α-cells, respectively, is controlled by metabolic, endocrine, and paracrine regulatory mechanisms and is essential for the control of blood levels of glucose. The deregulation of these mechanisms leads to various pathologies, most notably type 2 diabetes, which is driven by the combined lesions of impaired insulin action and a loss of the normal insulin secretion response to glucose. Glucose stimulates insulin secretion from β-cells in a bi-modal fashion, and new insights about the underlying mechanisms, particularly relating to the second or amplifying phase of this secretory response, have been recently gained. Other recent work highlights the importance of α-cell-produced proglucagon-derived peptides, incretin hormones from the gastrointestinal tract and other dietary components, including certain amino acids and fatty acids, in priming and potentiation of the β-cell glucose response. These advances provide a new perspective for the understanding of the β-cell failure that triggers type 2 diabetes.

Augmented mitochondrial energy metabolism is an early response to chronic glucose stress in human pancreatic beta cells

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

In islets from individuals with type 2 diabetes and in islets exposed to chronic elevated glucose, mitochondrial energy metabolism is impaired. Here, we studied early metabolic changes and mitochondrial adaptations in human beta cells during chronic glucose stress.

METHODS

Respiration and cytosolic ATP changes were measured in human islet cell clusters after culture for 4 days in 11.1 mmol/l glucose. Metabolomics was applied to analyse intracellular metabolite changes as a result of glucose stress conditions. Alterations in beta cell function were followed using insulin secretion assays or cytosolic calcium signalling after expression of the calcium probe YC3.6 specifically in beta cells of islet clusters.

RESULTS

At early stages of glucose stress, mitochondrial energy metabolism was augmented in contrast to the previously described mitochondrial dysfunction in beta cells from islets of diabetic donors. Following chronic glucose stress, mitochondrial respiration increased (by 52.4%, p < 0.001) and, as a consequence, the cytosolic ATP/ADP ratio in resting human pancreatic islet cells was elevated (by 27.8%, p < 0.05). Because of mitochondrial overactivation in the resting state, nutrient-induced beta cell activation was reduced. In addition, chronic glucose stress caused metabolic adaptations that resulted in the accumulation of intermediates of the glycolytic pathway, the pentose phosphate pathway and the TCA cycle; the most strongly augmented metabolite was glycerol 3-phosphate. The changes in metabolites observed are likely to be due to the inability of mitochondria to cope with continuous nutrient oversupply. To protect beta cells from chronic glucose stress, we inhibited mitochondrial pyruvate transport. Metabolite concentrations were partially normalised and the mitochondrial respiratory response to nutrients was markedly improved. Furthermore, stimulus-secretion coupling as assessed by cytosolic calcium signalling, was restored.

CONCLUSION/INTERPRETATION

We propose that metabolic changes and associated mitochondrial overactivation are early adaptations to glucose stress, and may reflect what happens as a result of poor blood glucose control. Inhibition of mitochondrial pyruvate transport reduces mitochondrial nutrient overload and allows beta cells to recover from chronic glucose stress. Graphical abstract.

Factors Influencing Mitochondrial Function as a Key Mediator of Glucose-Induced Insulin Release: Highlighting Nicotinamide Nucleotide Transhydrogenase

Pancreatic β-cells recognize blood glucose changes and release insulin that is a peptide hormone responsible for stable glycemia. Diabetes, a chronic disorder of insulin insufficiency, leads to disturbed glucose homeostasis and multi-organ problems. Glucose and insulin are key markers in the follow-up and control of this disease. Mitochondrial metabolism of pancreatic beta cells is a crucial part of glucose-stimulated cascade of insulin secretion. Effective factors on β-cells mitochondrial function in production of compounds such as tricarboxylic acid intermediates, glutamate, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate, and reactive oxygen species can have great effects on the secretion of insulin under diabetes. This review enhances our knowledge of factors influencing mitochondrial function as a key mediator of glucose-induced insulin release that accordingly will be helpful to further our understanding of the mechanisms implicated in the progressive beta cell failure that results in diabetes.

Exposure to inorganic arsenic and its methylated metabolites alters metabolomics profiles in INS-1 832/13 insulinoma cells and isolated pancreatic islets

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) is an environmental diabetogen, but mechanisms underlying its diabetogenic effects are poorly understood. Exposures to arsenite (iAsIII) and its methylated metabolites, methylarsonite (MAsIII) and dimethylarsinite (DMAsIII), have been shown to inhibit glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in pancreatic β-cells and isolated pancreatic islets. GSIS is regulated by complex mechanisms. Increase in ATP production through metabolism of glucose and other substrates is the ultimate trigger for GSIS in β-cells. In the present study, we used metabolomics to identify metabolites and pathways perturbed in cultured INS-1 832/13 rat insulinoma cells and isolated murine pancreatic islets by exposures to iAsIII, MAsIII and DMAsIII. We found that the exposures perturbed multiple metabolites, which were enriched primarily in the pathways of amino acid, carbohydrate, phospholipid and carnitine metabolism. However, the effects of arsenicals in INS-1 832/13 cells differed from those in the islets and were exposure specific with very few overlaps between the three arsenicals. In INS-1 832/13 cells, all three arsenicals decreased succinate, a metabolite of Krebs cycle, which provides substrates for ATP synthesis in mitochondria. Acetylcarnitine was decreased consistently by exposures to arsenicals in both the cells and the islets. Acetylcarnitine is usually found in equilibrium with acetyl-CoA, which is the central metabolite in the catabolism of macronutrients and the key substrate for Krebs cycle. It is also thought to play an antioxidant function in mitochondria. Thus, while each of the three trivalent arsenicals perturbed specific metabolic pathways, which may or may not be associated with GSIS, all three arsenicals appeared to impair mechanisms that support ATP production or antioxidant defense in mitochondria. These results suggest that impaired ATP production and/or mitochondrial dysfunction caused by oxidative stress may be the mechanisms underlying the inhibition of GSIS in β-cells exposed to trivalent arsenicals.

Metagenomic analysis reveals gestational diabetes mellitus-related microbial regulators of glucose tolerance

AIMS

Recent studies have suggested a possible association between microbiota and gestational diabetes (GDM). However, the results are inconsistent. Our objective was to investigate further the relationship between GDM and microbiota and verify the potential microbial marker.

METHODS

Two complementary approaches were used for the demonstration. First, we compared the gut microbial composition of 23 GDM patients and 26 non-GDM ethnically Chinese Han pregnant women, by using whole-metagenome shotgun sequencing of their stool samples collected at the third trimester. Second, we used Q-PCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) to evaluate the gut microbial composition in the stool samples from another cohort of 150 Chinese pregnant women (113 Control and 37 GDM), to further confirm the potential microbial marker.

RESULTS

The gut microbiota of GDM women show lower albeit not statistically significant (p = 0.18) alpha diversity at the species level than non-GDM women. However, the species-level beta-diversity or between-sample diversity measured by Bray-Curtis distance shows significant differences (p < 2.2e-16) between the two groups. The species Bacteroides dorei positively correlated with both OGTT (oral glucose tolerance test) 0-Hour (p = 0.0099) and OGTT 1-Hour (p = 0.0070). There is a similar trend between Bacteroides sp. 3_1_33FAA and both OGTT 0-Hour (p = 0.014) and OGTT 1-Hour (p = 0.0101) response variables. The species Alistipes putredinis negatively correlated with OGTT 1-Hour (p = 0.0172) and OGTT 2-Hour (p = 0.0147). Q-PCR validation further confirmed the association between the glucose tolerance loci of Bacteroides dorei and OGTT response.

CONCLUSIONS

Gut microbiome is related to the diabetic status of Chinese women during pregnancy. Specific species such as Bacteroides dorei associate with glucose response and could be potential monitoring and therapeutic microbial markers for GDM.

Glucose as a Major Antioxidant: When, What for and Why It Fails?

A human organism depends on stable glucose blood levels in order to maintain its metabolic needs. Glucose is considered to be the most important energy source, and glycolysis is postulated as a backbone pathway. However, when the glucose supply is limited, ketone bodies and amino acids can be used to produce enough ATP. In contrast, for the functioning of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) glucose is essential and cannot be substituted by other metabolites. The PPP generates and maintains the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) needed for the reduction in oxidized glutathione and protein thiols, the synthesis of lipids and DNA as well as for xenobiotic detoxification, regulatory redox signaling and counteracting infections. The flux of glucose into a PPP—particularly under extreme oxidative and toxic challenges—is critical for survival, whereas the glycolytic pathway is primarily activated when glucose is abundant, and there is lack of NADP⁺ that is required for the activation of glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase. An important role of glycogen stores in resistance to oxidative challenges is discussed. Current evidences explain the disruptive metabolic effects and detrimental health consequences of chronic nutritional carbohydrate overload, and provide new insights into the positive metabolic effects of intermittent fasting, caloric restriction, exercise, and ketogenic diet through modulation of redox homeostasis.

Dehydroepiandrosterone on metabolism and the cardiovascular system in the postmenopausal period

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), mostly present as its sulfated ester (DHEA-S), is an anabolic hormone that naturally declines with age. Furthermore, it is the most abundant androgen and estrogen precursor in humans. Low plasma levels of DHEA have been strongly associated with obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and high blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. In this respect, DHEA could be regarded as a promising agent against metabolic syndrome (MetS) in postmenopausal women, since several age-related metabolic diseases are reported during aging. There are plenty of experimental evidences showing beneficial effects after DHEA therapy on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, as well as cardiovascular health. However, its potential as a therapeutic agent appears to attract controversy, due to the lack of effects on some symptoms related to MetS. In this review, we examine the available literature regarding the impact of DHEA therapy on adiposity, glucose metabolism, and the cardiovascular system in the postmenopausal period. Both clinical studies and in vitro and in vivo experimental models were selected, and where possible, the main cellular mechanisms involved in DHEA therapy were discussed. Schematic representation showing some of the general effects observed after administration DHEA therapy on target tissues of energy metabolism and the cardiovascular system. ↑ represents an increase, ↓ represents a decrease, - represents a worsening and ↔ represents no change after DHEA therapy.

The Role of the Pentose Phosphate Pathway in Diabetes and Cancer

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) branches from glucose 6-phosphate (G6P), produces NADPH and ribose 5-phosphate (R5P), and shunts carbons back to the glycolytic or gluconeogenic pathway. The PPP has been demonstrated to be a major regulator for cellular reduction-oxidation (redox) homeostasis and biosynthesis. Enzymes in the PPP are reported to play important roles in many human diseases. In this review, we will discuss the role of the PPP in type 2 diabetes and cancer.

Remodeling of the Acetylproteome by SIRT3 Manipulation Fails to Affect Insulin Secretion or β Cell Metabolism in the Absence of Overnutrition

SIRT3 is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺)- dependent mitochondrial protein deacetylase purported to influence metabolism through post-translational modification of metabolic enzymes. Fuel-stimulated insulin secretion, which involves mitochondrial metabolism, could be susceptible to SIRT3-mediated effects. We used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to manipulate SIRT3 expression in β cells, resulting in widespread SIRT3-dependent changes in acetylation of key metabolic enzymes but no appreciable changes in glucose- or pyruvate-stimulated insulin secretion or metabolomic profile during glucose stimulation. Moreover, these broad changes in the SIRT3-targeted acetylproteome did not affect responses to nutritional or ER stress. We also studied mice with global SIRT3 knockout fed either standard chow (STD) or high-fat and high-sucrose (HFHS) diets. Only when chronically fed HFHS diet do SIRT3 KO animals exhibit a modest reduction in insulin secretion. We conclude that broad changes in mitochondrial protein acetylation in response to manipulation of SIRT3 are not sufficient to cause changes in islet function or metabolism.

Peterson et al. report that ablation of SIRT3 in 832/13 β cells dramatically alters the mitochondrial acetylproteome but does not affect insulin secretion, metabolomic profile, or β cell survival. Moreover, SIRT3 knockout causes a modest reduction in insulin secretion in mice fed a high-fat and high-sucrose but not a standard chow diet.

Nutrient Metabolism, Subcellular Redox State, and Oxidative Stress in Pancreatic Islets and β-Cells

Insulin-secreting pancreatic β-cells play a critical role in blood glucose homeostasis and the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the context of insulin resistance. Based on data obtained at the whole cell level using poorly specific chemical probes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide and hydrogen peroxide have been proposed to contribute to the stimulation of insulin secretion by nutrients (positive role) and to the alterations of cell survival and secretory function in T2D (negative role). This raised the controversial hypothesis that any attempt to decrease β-cell oxidative stress and apoptosis in T2D would further impair insulin secretion. Over the last decade, the development of genetically-encoded redox probes that can be targeted to cellular compartments of interest and are specific of redox couples allowed the evaluation of short- and long-term effects of nutrients on β-cell redox changes at the subcellular level. The data indicated that the nutrient regulation of β-cell redox signaling and ROS toxicity is far more complex than previously thought and that the subcellular compartmentation of these processes cannot be neglected when evaluating the mechanisms of ROS production or the efficacy of antioxidant enzymes and antioxidant drugs under glucolipotoxic conditions and in T2D. In this review, we present what is currently known about the compartmentation of redox homeostatic systems and tools to investigate it. We then review data about the effects of nutrients on β-cell subcellular redox state under normal conditions and in the context of T2D and discuss challenges and opportunities in the field.

Protein Lysine Acetylation: Grease or Sand in the Gears of β-Cell Mitochondria?

Mitochondria carry out many essential functions in metabolism. A central task is the oxidation of nutrients and the generation of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondrial metabolism needs to be tightly regulated for the cell to respond to changes in ATP demand and nutrient supply. Here, we review how protein lysine acetylation contributes to the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism in insulin target tissues and the insulin-secreting pancreatic β-cell. We summarize recent evidence showing that in pancreatic β-cells, lysine acetylation occurs on a large number of proteins involved in metabolism. Furthermore, we give a brief overview of the molecular mechanism that controls lysine acetylation dynamics. We propose that protein lysine acetylation is an important mechanism for the fine-tuning of mitochondrial activity in β-cells during normal physiology. In contrast, nutrient oversupply, oxidative stress, or inhibition of the mitochondrial deacetylase SIRT3 leads to protein lysine hyperacetylation, which impairs mitochondrial function. By perturbing mitochondrial activity in β-cells and insulin target tissues, protein lysine hyperacetylation may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes causes marked inhibition of mitochondrial metabolism in pancreatic β-cells

Diabetes is a global health problem caused primarily by the inability of pancreatic β-cells to secrete adequate levels of insulin. The molecular mechanisms underlying the progressive failure of β-cells to respond to glucose in type-2 diabetes remain unresolved. Using a combination of transcriptomics and proteomics, we find significant dysregulation of major metabolic pathways in islets of diabetic βV59M mice, a non-obese, eulipidaemic diabetes model. Multiple genes/proteins involved in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis are upregulated, whereas those involved in oxidative phosphorylation are downregulated. In isolated islets, glucose-induced increases in NADH and ATP are impaired and both oxidative and glycolytic glucose metabolism are reduced. INS-1 β-cells cultured chronically at high glucose show similar changes in protein expression and reduced glucose-stimulated oxygen consumption: targeted metabolomics reveals impaired metabolism. These data indicate hyperglycaemia induces metabolic changes in β-cells that markedly reduce mitochondrial metabolism and ATP synthesis. We propose this underlies the progressive failure of β-cells in diabetes.

Metabolic Regulation of Methionine Restriction in Diabetes

Although the effects of dietary methionine restriction have been investigated in the physiology of aging and diseases related to oxidative stress, the relationship between methionine restriction (MR) and the development of metabolic disorders has not been explored extensively. This review summarizes studies of the possible involvement of dietary methionine restriction in improving insulin resistance, glucose homeostasis, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and inflammation, with an emphasis on the fibroblast growth factor 21 and protein phosphatase 2A signals and autophagy in diabetes. Diets deficient in methionine may be a useful nutritional strategy in patients with diabetes.

Metabolic activation-driven mitochondrial hyperpolarization predicts insulin secretion in human pancreatic beta-cells

Mitochondrial metabolism plays a central role in insulin secretion in pancreatic beta-cells. Generation of protonmotive force and ATP synthesis from glucose-originated pyruvate are critical steps in the canonical pathway of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Mitochondrial metabolism is intertwined with pathways that are thought to amplify insulin secretion with mechanisms distinct from the canonical pathway, and the relative importance of these two pathways is controversial. Here I show that glucose-induced mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) hyperpolarization is necessary for, and predicts, the rate of insulin secretion in primary cultured human beta-cells. When glucose concentration is elevated, increased metabolism results in a substantial MMP hyperpolarization, as well as in increased rates of ATP synthesis and turnover marked by faster cell respiration. Using modular kinetic analysis I explored what properties of cellular energy metabolism enable a large glucose-induced change in MMP in human beta-cells. I found that an ATP-dependent pathway activates glucose or substrate oxidation, acting as a positive feedback in energy metabolism. This activation mechanism is essential for concomitant fast respiration and high MMP, and for a high magnitude glucose-induced MMP hyperpolarization and therefore for insulin secretion.

The pathogenetic role of β-cell mitochondria in type 2 diabetes

Mitochondrial metabolism is a major determinant of insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells. Type 2 diabetes evolves when β-cells fail to release appropriate amounts of insulin in response to glucose. This results in hyperglycemia and metabolic dysregulation. Evidence has recently been mounting that mitochondrial dysfunction plays an important role in these processes. Monogenic dysfunction of mitochondria is a rare condition but causes a type 2 diabetes-like syndrome owing to β-cell failure. Here, we describe novel advances in research on mitochondrial dysfunction in the β-cell in type 2 diabetes, with a focus on human studies. Relevant studies in animal and cell models of the disease are described. Transcriptional and translational regulation in mitochondria are particularly emphasized. The role of metabolic enzymes and pathways and their impact on β-cell function in type 2 diabetes pathophysiology are discussed. The role of genetic variation in mitochondrial function leading to type 2 diabetes is highlighted. We argue that alterations in mitochondria may be a culprit in the pathogenetic processes culminating in type 2 diabetes.

Glutamine-Elicited Secretion of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Is Governed by an Activated Glutamate Dehydrogenase

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), secreted from intestinal L cells, glucose dependently stimulates insulin secretion from β-cells. This glucose dependence prevents hypoglycemia, rendering GLP-1 analogs a useful and safe treatment modality in type 2 diabetes. Although the amino acid glutamine is a potent elicitor of GLP-1 secretion, the responsible mechanism remains unclear. We investigated how GLP-1 secretion is metabolically coupled in L cells (GLUTag) and in vivo in mice using the insulin-secreting cell line INS-1 832/13 as reference. A membrane-permeable glutamate analog (dimethylglutamate [DMG]), acting downstream of electrogenic transporters, elicited similar alterations in metabolism as glutamine in both cell lines. Both DMG and glutamine alone elicited GLP-1 secretion in GLUTag cells and in vivo, whereas activation of glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) was required to stimulate insulin secretion from INS-1 832/13 cells. Pharmacological inhibition in vivo of GDH blocked secretion of GLP-1 in response to DMG. In conclusion, our results suggest that nonelectrogenic nutrient uptake and metabolism play an important role in L cell stimulus-secretion coupling. Metabolism of glutamine and related analogs by GDH in the L cell may explain why GLP-1 secretion, but not that of insulin, is activated by these secretagogues in vivo.

Cell cycle-related metabolism and mitochondrial dynamics in a replication-competent pancreatic beta-cell line

Cell replication is a fundamental attribute of growth and repair in multicellular organisms. Pancreatic beta-cells in adults rarely enter cell cycle, hindering the capacity for regeneration in diabetes. Efforts to drive beta-cells into cell cycle have so far largely focused on regulatory molecules such as cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). Investigations in cancer biology have uncovered that adaptive changes in metabolism, the mitochondrial network, and cellular Ca²⁺ are critical for permitting cells to progress through the cell cycle. Here, we investigated these parameters in the replication-competent beta-cell line INS 832/13. Cell cycle synchronization of this line permitted evaluation of cell metabolism, mitochondrial network, and cellular Ca²⁺ compartmentalization at key cell cycle stages. The mitochondrial network is interconnected and filamentous at G1/S but fragments during the S and G2/M phases, presumably to permit sorting to daughter cells. Pyruvate anaplerosis peaks at G1/S, consistent with generation of biomass for daughter cells, whereas mitochondrial Ca²⁺ and respiration increase during S and G2/M, consistent with increased energy requirements for DNA and lipid synthesis. This synchronization approach may be of value to investigators performing live cell imaging of Ca²⁺ or mitochondrial dynamics commonly undertaken in INS cell lines because without synchrony widely disparate data from cell to cell would be expected depending on position within cell cycle. Our findings also offer insight into why replicating beta-cells are relatively nonfunctional secreting insulin in response to glucose. They also provide guidance on metabolic requirements of beta-cells for the transition through the cell cycle that may complement the efforts currently restricted to manipulating cell cycle to drive beta-cells through cell cycle.

Metabolomics applied to islet nutrient sensing mechanisms

After multiple decades of investigation, the precise mechanisms involved in fuel-stimulated insulin secretion are still being revealed. One avenue for gaining deeper knowledge is to apply emergent tools of "metabolomics," involving mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance-based profiling of islet cells in their fuel-stimulated compared with basal states. The current article summarizes recent insights gained from application of metabolomics tools to the specific process of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, revealing 2 new mechanisms that may provide targets for improving insulin secretion in diabetes.

Sox5 regulates beta-cell phenotype and is reduced in type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, but the mechanisms underlying insulin secretion failure are not completely understood. Here, we show that a set of co-expressed genes, which is enriched for genes with islet-selective open chromatin, is associated with T2D. These genes are perturbed in T2D and have a similar expression pattern to that of dedifferentiated islets. We identify Sox5 as a regulator of the module. Sox5 knockdown induces gene expression changes similar to those observed in T2D and diabetic animals and has profound effects on insulin secretion, including reduced depolarization-evoked Ca²⁺-influx and β-cell exocytosis. SOX5 overexpression reverses the expression perturbations observed in a mouse model of T2D, increases the expression of key β-cell genes and improves glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in human islets from donors with T2D. We suggest that human islets in T2D display changes reminiscent of dedifferentiation and highlight SOX5 as a regulator of β-cell phenotype and function.

Transcribing β-cell mitochondria in health and disease

Background

The recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) have identified the pancreatic β-cell as the culprit in the pathogenesis of the disease. Mitochondrial metabolism plays a crucial role in the processes controlling release of insulin and β-cell mass. This notion implies that mechanisms controlling mitochondrial function have the potential to play a decisive pathogenetic role in T2D.

Scope of the review

This article reviews studies demonstrating that there is indeed mitochondrial dysfunction in islets in T2D, and that GWAS have identified a variant in the gene encoding transcription factor B1 mitochondrial (TFB1M), predisposing to T2D due to mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired insulin secretion. Mechanistic studies of the nature of this pathogenetic link, as well as of other mitochondrial transcription factors, are described.

Major conclusions

Based on this, it is argued that transcription and translation in mitochondria are critical processes determining mitochondrial function in β-cells in health and disease.

Mechanisms of the amplifying pathway of insulin secretion in the β cell

Pancreatic islet β cells secrete insulin in response to nutrient secretagogues, like glucose, dependent on calcium influx and nutrient metabolism. One of the most intriguing qualities of β cells is their ability to use metabolism to amplify the amount of secreted insulin independent of further alterations in intracellular calcium. Many years studying this amplifying process have shaped our current understanding of β cell stimulus-secretion coupling; yet, the exact mechanisms of amplification have been elusive. Recent studies utilizing metabolomics, computational modeling, and animal models have progressed our understanding of the metabolic amplifying pathway of insulin secretion from the β cell. New approaches will be discussed which offer in-roads to a more complete model of β cell function. The development of β cell therapeutics may be aided by such a model, facilitating the targeting of aspects of the metabolic amplifying pathway which are unique to the β cell.