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Abbasi M, Heath B, McGinness L. Advances in metformin-delivery systems for diabetes and obesity management. Diabetes Obes Metab 2024; 26:3513-3529. [PMID: 38984380 DOI: 10.1111/dom.15759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Metformin is a medication that is commonly prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes. It has been used for more than 60 years and is highly effective in lowering blood glucose levels. Recent studies indicate that metformin may have additional medical benefits beyond treating diabetes, revealing its potential therapeutic uses. Oral medication is commonly used to administer metformin because of its convenience and cost-effectiveness. However, there are challenges in optimizing its effectiveness. Gastrointestinal side effects and limitations in bioavailability have led to the underutilization of metformin. Innovative drug-delivery systems such as fast-dissolving tablets, micro/nanoparticle formulations, hydrogel and microneedles have been explored to optimize metformin therapy. These strategies enhance metformin dosage, targeting, bioavailability and stability, and provide personalized treatment options for improved glucose homeostasis, antiobesity and metabolic health benefits. Developing new delivery systems for metformin shows potential for improving therapeutic outcomes, broadening its applications beyond diabetes management and addressing unmet medical needs in various clinical settings. However, it is important to improve drug-delivery systems, addressing issues such as complexity, cost, biocompatibility, stability during storage and transportation, loading capacity, required technologies and biomaterials, targeting precision and regulatory approval. Addressing these limitations is crucial for effective, safe and accessible drug delivery in clinical practice. In this review, recent advances in the development and application of metformin-delivery systems for diabetes and obesity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrnaz Abbasi
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Braeden Heath
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Sciences and Mathematics, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Lauren McGinness
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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2
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Sirtori CR, Castiglione S, Pavanello C. METFORMIN: FROM DIABETES TO CANCER TO PROLONGATION OF LIFE. Pharmacol Res 2024; 208:107367. [PMID: 39191336 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
The metformin molecule dates back to over a century, but its clinical use started in the '50s. Since then, its use in diabetics has grown constantly, with over 150 million users today. The therapeutic profile also expanded, with improved understanding of novel mechanisms. Metformin has a major activity on insulin resistance, by acting on the insulin receptors and mitochondria, most likely by activation of the adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase. These and associated mechanisms lead to significant lipid lowering and body weight loss. An anti-cancer action has come up in recent years, with mechanisms partly dependent on the mitochondrial activity and also on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase resistance occurring in some malignant tumors. The potential of metformin to raise life-length is the object of large ongoing studies and of several basic and clinical investigations. The present review article will attempt to investigate the basic mechanisms behind these diverse activities and the potential clinical benefits. Metformin may act on transcriptional activity by histone modification, DNA methylation and miRNAs. An activity on age-associated inflammation (inflammaging) may occur via activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor and changes in gut microbiota. A senolytic activity, leading to reduction of cells with the senescent associated secretory phenotype, may be crucial in lifespan prolongation as well as in ancillary properties in age-associated diseases, such as Parkinson's disease. Telomere prolongation may be related to the activity on mitochondrial respiratory factor 1 and on peroxisome gamma proliferator coactivator 1-alpha. Very recent observations on the potential to act on the most severe neurological disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia, have raised considerable hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare R Sirtori
- Center of Dyslipidemias, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy; Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Sofia Castiglione
- Center of Dyslipidemias, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy; Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Pavanello
- Center of Dyslipidemias, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy; Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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3
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Lockwood TD. Coordination chemistry suggests that independently observed benefits of metformin and Zn 2+ against COVID-19 are not independent. Biometals 2024; 37:983-1022. [PMID: 38578560 PMCID: PMC11255062 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-024-00590-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Independent trials indicate that either oral Zn2+ or metformin can separately improve COVID-19 outcomes by approximately 40%. Coordination chemistry predicts a mechanistic relationship and therapeutic synergy. Zn2+ deficit is a known risk factor for both COVID-19 and non-infectious inflammation. Most dietary Zn2+ is not absorbed. Metformin is a naked ligand that presumably increases intestinal Zn2+ bioavailability and active absorption by cation transporters known to transport metformin. Intracellular Zn2+ provides a natural buffer of many protease reactions; the variable "set point" is determined by Zn2+ regulation or availability. A Zn2+-interactive protease network is suggested here. The two viral cysteine proteases are therapeutic targets against COVID-19. Viral and many host proteases are submaximally inhibited by exchangeable cell Zn2+. Inhibition of cysteine proteases can improve COVID-19 outcomes and non-infectious inflammation. Metformin reportedly enhances the natural moderating effect of Zn2+ on bioassayed proteome degradation. Firstly, the dissociable metformin-Zn2+ complex could be actively transported by intestinal cation transporters; thereby creating artificial pathways of absorption and increased body Zn2+ content. Secondly, metformin Zn2+ coordination can create a non-natural protease inhibitor independent of cell Zn2+ content. Moderation of peptidolytic reactions by either or both mechanisms could slow (a) viral multiplication (b) viral invasion and (c) the pathogenic host inflammatory response. These combined actions could allow development of acquired immunity to clear the infection before life-threatening inflammation. Nirmatrelvir (Paxlovid®) opposes COVID-19 by selective inhibition the viral main protease by a Zn2+-independent mechanism. Pending safety evaluation, predictable synergistic benefits of metformin and Zn2+, and perhaps metformin/Zn2+/Paxlovid® co-administration should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Lockwood
- Department Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA.
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Goglia U, Hasballa I, Teti C, Boschetti M, Ferone D, Albertelli M. Ianus Bifrons: The Two Faces of Metformin. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1287. [PMID: 38610965 PMCID: PMC11011026 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The ancient Roman god Ianus was a mysterious divinity with two opposite faces, one looking at the past and the other looking to the future. Likewise, metformin is an "old" drug, with one side looking at the metabolic role and the other looking at the anti-proliferative mechanism; therefore, it represents a typical and ideal bridge between diabetes and cancer. Metformin (1,1-dimethylbiguanidine hydrochloride) is a drug that has long been in use for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, but recently evidence is growing about its potential use in other metabolic conditions and in proliferative-associated diseases. The aim of this paper is to retrace, from a historical perspective, the knowledge of this molecule, shedding light on the subcellular mechanisms of action involved in metabolism as well as cellular and tissue growth. The intra-tumoral pharmacodynamic effects of metformin and its possible role in the management of different neoplasms are evaluated and debated. The etymology of the name Ianus is probably from the Latin term ianua, which means door. How many new doors will this old drug be able to open?
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Goglia
- Endocrinology and Diabetology Unit, Local Health Authority CN1, 12100 Cuneo, Italy
| | - Iderina Hasballa
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Claudia Teti
- Endocrinology and Diabetology Unit, Local Health Autorithy Imperia 1, 18100 Imperia, Italy;
| | - Mara Boschetti
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Diego Ferone
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Manuela Albertelli
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy (M.B.); (D.F.); (M.A.)
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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Isop LM, Neculau AE, Necula RD, Kakucs C, Moga MA, Dima L. Metformin: The Winding Path from Understanding Its Molecular Mechanisms to Proving Therapeutic Benefits in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1714. [PMID: 38139841 PMCID: PMC10748332 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, has garnered increasing attention for its potential neuroprotective properties due to the growing demand for treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron diseases. This review synthesizes experimental and clinical studies on metformin's mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative disorders. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library, focused on key phrases such as "metformin", "neuroprotection", and "neurodegenerative diseases", with data up to September 2023. Recent research on metformin's glucoregulatory mechanisms reveals new molecular targets, including the activation of the LKB1-AMPK signaling pathway, which is crucial for chronic administration of metformin. The pleiotropic impact may involve other stress kinases that are acutely activated. The precise role of respiratory chain complexes (I and IV), of the mitochondrial targets, or of the lysosomes in metformin effects remains to be established by further research. Research on extrahepatic targets like the gut and microbiota, as well as its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, is crucial for understanding neurodegenerative disorders. Experimental data on animal models shows promising results, but clinical studies are inconclusive. Understanding the molecular targets and mechanisms of its effects could help design clinical trials to explore and, hopefully, prove its therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mihaela Isop
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Andrea Elena Neculau
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Radu Dan Necula
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Cristian Kakucs
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
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Zhao Q, Chen Y, Huang W, Zhou H, Zhang W. Drug-microbiota interactions: an emerging priority for precision medicine. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:386. [PMID: 37806986 PMCID: PMC10560686 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01619-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Individual variability in drug response (IVDR) can be a major cause of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and prolonged therapy, resulting in a substantial health and economic burden. Despite extensive research in pharmacogenomics regarding the impact of individual genetic background on pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD), genetic diversity explains only a limited proportion of IVDR. The role of gut microbiota, also known as the second genome, and its metabolites in modulating therapeutic outcomes in human diseases have been highlighted by recent studies. Consequently, the burgeoning field of pharmacomicrobiomics aims to explore the correlation between microbiota variation and IVDR or ADRs. This review presents an up-to-date overview of the intricate interactions between gut microbiota and classical therapeutic agents for human systemic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), endocrine diseases, and others. We summarise how microbiota, directly and indirectly, modify the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of drugs. Conversely, drugs can also modulate the composition and function of gut microbiota, leading to changes in microbial metabolism and immune response. We also discuss the practical challenges, strategies, and opportunities in this field, emphasizing the critical need to develop an innovative approach to multi-omics, integrate various data types, including human and microbiota genomic data, as well as translate lab data into clinical practice. To sum up, pharmacomicrobiomics represents a promising avenue to address IVDR and improve patient outcomes, and further research in this field is imperative to unlock its full potential for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- Engineering Research Center of Applied Technology of Pharmacogenomics, Ministry of Education, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- Engineering Research Center of Applied Technology of Pharmacogenomics, Ministry of Education, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
| | - Weihua Huang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- Engineering Research Center of Applied Technology of Pharmacogenomics, Ministry of Education, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
| | - Honghao Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- Engineering Research Center of Applied Technology of Pharmacogenomics, Ministry of Education, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, PR China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, PR China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, PR China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China.
- Central Laboratory of Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, 283 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, PR China.
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Maurer J, Zhao X, Irmler M, Gudiksen A, Pilmark NS, Li Q, Goj T, Beckers J, Hrabě de Angelis M, Birkenfeld AL, Peter A, Lehmann R, Pilegaard H, Karstoft K, Xu G, Weigert C. Redox state and altered pyruvate metabolism contribute to a dose-dependent metformin-induced lactate production of human myotubes. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C1131-C1143. [PMID: 37694284 PMCID: PMC10635655 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00186.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Metformin-induced glycolysis and lactate production can lead to acidosis as a life-threatening side effect, but slight increases in blood lactate levels in a physiological range were also reported in metformin-treated patients. However, how metformin increases systemic lactate concentrations is only partly understood. Because human skeletal muscle has a high capacity to produce lactate, the aim was to elucidate the dose-dependent regulation of metformin-induced lactate production and the potential contribution of skeletal muscle to blood lactate levels under metformin treatment. This was examined by using metformin treatment (16-776 μM) of primary human myotubes and by 17 days of metformin treatment in humans. As from 78 µM, metformin induced lactate production and secretion and glucose consumption. Investigating the cellular redox state by mitochondrial respirometry, we found metformin to inhibit the respiratory chain complex I (776 µM, P < 0.01) along with decreasing the [NAD+]:[NADH] ratio (776 µM, P < 0.001). RNA sequencing and phospho-immunoblot data indicate inhibition of pyruvate oxidation mediated through phosphorylation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) complex (39 µM, P < 0.01). On the other hand, in human skeletal muscle, phosphorylation of PDH was not altered by metformin. Nonetheless, blood lactate levels were increased under metformin treatment (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the findings suggest that metformin-induced inhibition of pyruvate oxidation combined with altered cellular redox state shifts the equilibrium of the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) reaction leading to a dose-dependent lactate production in primary human myotubes.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Metformin shifts the equilibrium of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) reaction by low dose-induced phosphorylation of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) resulting in inhibition of pyruvate oxidation and high dose-induced increase in NADH, which explains the dose-dependent lactate production of differentiated human skeletal muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Maurer
- Department for Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Xinjie Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Martin Irmler
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Anders Gudiksen
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nanna S Pilmark
- Centre for Physical Activity Research (CFAS), Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Qi Li
- Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Thomas Goj
- Department for Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Johannes Beckers
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Chair of Experimental Genetics, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabě de Angelis
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Chair of Experimental Genetics, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Andreas L Birkenfeld
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases, Helmholtz Munich, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Peter
- Department for Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases, Helmholtz Munich, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Rainer Lehmann
- Department for Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases, Helmholtz Munich, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Henriette Pilegaard
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Karstoft
- Centre for Physical Activity Research (CFAS), Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Bispebjerg and Fredriksberg Hospital, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Guowang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Cora Weigert
- Department for Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases, Helmholtz Munich, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Foretz M, Guigas B, Viollet B. Metformin: update on mechanisms of action and repurposing potential. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023:10.1038/s41574-023-00833-4. [PMID: 37130947 PMCID: PMC10153049 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00833-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 105.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Currently, metformin is the first-line medication to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in most guidelines and is used daily by >200 million patients. Surprisingly, the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic action are complex and are still not fully understood. Early evidence highlighted the liver as the major organ involved in the effect of metformin on reducing blood levels of glucose. However, increasing evidence points towards other sites of action that might also have an important role, including the gastrointestinal tract, the gut microbial communities and the tissue-resident immune cells. At the molecular level, it seems that the mechanisms of action vary depending on the dose of metformin used and duration of treatment. Initial studies have shown that metformin targets hepatic mitochondria; however, the identification of a novel target at low concentrations of metformin at the lysosome surface might reveal a new mechanism of action. Based on the efficacy and safety records in T2DM, attention has been given to the repurposing of metformin as part of adjunct therapy for the treatment of cancer, age-related diseases, inflammatory diseases and COVID-19. In this Review, we highlight the latest advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of action of metformin and discuss potential emerging novel therapeutic uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Foretz
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Guigas
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Benoit Viollet
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.
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Lee CW, You BH, Yim S, Han SY, Chae HS, Bae M, Kim SY, Yu JE, Jung J, Nhoek P, Kim H, Choi HS, Chin YW, Kim HW, Choi YH. Change of metformin concentrations in the liver as a pharmacological target site of metformin after long-term combined treatment with ginseng berry extract. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1148155. [PMID: 36998615 PMCID: PMC10043734 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1148155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin as an oral glucose-lowering drug is used to treat type 2 diabetic mellitus. Considering the relatively high incidence of cardiovascular complications and other metabolic diseases in diabetic mellitus patients, a combination of metformin plus herbal supplements is a preferrable way to improve the therapeutic outcomes of metformin. Ginseng berry, the fruit of Panax ginseng Meyer, has investigated as a candidate in metformin combination mainly due to its anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-obesity, anti-hepatic steatosis and anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, the pharmacokinetic interaction of metformin via OCTs and MATEs leads to changes in the efficacy and/or toxicity of metformin. Thus, we assessed how ginseng berry extract (GB) affects metformin pharmacokinetics in mice, specially focusing on the effect of the treatment period (i.e., 1-day and 28-day) of GB on metformin pharmacokinetics. In 1-day and 28-day co-treatment of metformin and GB, GB did not affect renal excretion as a main elimination route of metformin and GB therefore did not change the systemic exposure of metformin. Interestingly, 28-day co-treatment of GB increased metformin concentration in the livers (i.e., 37.3, 59.3% and 60.9% increases versus 1-day metformin, 1-day metformin plus GB and 28-day metformin groups, respectively). This was probably due to the increased metformin uptake via OCT1 and decreased metformin biliary excretion via MATE1 in the livers. These results suggest that co-treatment of GB for 28 days (i.e., long-term combined treatment of GB) enhanced metformin concentration in the liver as a pharmacological target tissue of metformin. However, GB showed a negligible impact on the systemic exposure of metformin in relation to its toxicity (i.e., renal and plasma concentrations of metformin).
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Affiliation(s)
- Choong Whan Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoung Hoon You
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Sreymom Yim
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Yon Han
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Sung Chae
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, United States
| | - Mingoo Bae
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Yeon Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Eun Yu
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Jung
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Piseth Nhoek
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hojun Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of Korean Medicine, Dongguk-University Ilsan Oriental Hospital, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Seok Choi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Won Chin
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Woo Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hee Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University_Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Young Hee Choi,
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10
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PEN2: Metformin's new partner at lysosome. Cell Res 2022; 32:507-508. [PMID: 35418220 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-022-00661-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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11
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Ilias I, Rizzo M, Zabuliene L. Metformin: Sex/Gender Differences in Its Uses and Effects—Narrative Review. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58030430. [PMID: 35334606 PMCID: PMC8952223 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58030430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin (MTF) occupies a major and fundamental position in the therapeutic management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Gender differences in some effects and actions of MTF have been reported. Women are usually prescribed lower MTF doses compared to men and report more gastrointestinal side effects. The incidence of cardiovascular events in women on MTF has been found to be lower to that of men on MTF. Despite some promising results with MTF regarding pregnancy rates in women with PCOS, the management of gestational diabetes, cancer prevention or adjunctive cancer treatment and COVID-19, most robust meta-analyses have yet to confirm such beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Ilias
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Elena Venizelou Hospital, GR-11521 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: e-mail:
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Promise), School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 141, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Lina Zabuliene
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, M. K. Čiurlionio St. 21/27, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania;
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12
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Trujillo-Del Río C, Tortajada-Pérez J, Gómez-Escribano AP, Casterá F, Peiró C, Millán JM, Herrero MJ, Vázquez-Manrique RP. Metformin to treat Huntington disease: a pleiotropic drug against a multi-system disorder. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 204:111670. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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13
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Green CJ, Marjot T, Walsby-Tickle J, Charlton C, Cornfield T, Westcott F, Pinnick KE, Moolla A, Hazlehurst JM, McCullagh J, Tomlinson JW, Hodson L. Metformin maintains intrahepatic triglyceride content through increased hepatic de novo lipogenesis. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 186:367-377. [PMID: 35038311 PMCID: PMC8859923 DOI: 10.1530/eje-21-0850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Metformin is a first-line pharmacotherapy in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, a condition closely associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although metformin promotes weight loss and improves insulin sensitivity, its effect on intrahepatic triglyceride (IHTG) remains unclear. We investigated the effect of metformin on IHTG, hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL), and fatty acid (FA) oxidation in vivo in humans. DESIGN AND METHODS Metabolic investigations, using stable-isotope tracers, were performed in ten insulin-resistant, overweight/obese human participants with NAFLD who were treatment naïve before and after 12 weeks of metformin treatment. The effect of metformin on markers of s.c. adipose tissue FA metabolism and function, along with the plasma metabolome, was investigated. RESULTS Twelve weeks of treatment with metformin resulted in a significant reduction in body weight and improved insulin sensitivity, but IHTG content and FA oxidation remained unchanged. Metformin treatment was associated with a significant decrease in VLDL-triglyceride (TG) concentrations and a significant increase in the relative contribution of DNL-derived FAs to VLDL-TG. There were subtle and relatively few changes in s.c. adipose tissue FA metabolism and the plasma metabolome with metformin treatment. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate the mechanisms of action of metformin whereby it improves insulin sensitivity and promotes weight loss, without improvement in IHTG; these observations are partly explained through increased hepatic DNL and a lack of change in FA oxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte J Green
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas Marjot
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Catriona Charlton
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas Cornfield
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Felix Westcott
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Katherine E Pinnick
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Ahmad Moolla
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Jonathan M Hazlehurst
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - James McCullagh
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jeremy W Tomlinson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospital Trusts, Oxford, UK
| | - Leanne Hodson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospital Trusts, Oxford, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to L Hodson;
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14
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Tulipano G. Integrated or Independent Actions of Metformin in Target Tissues Underlying Its Current Use and New Possible Applications in the Endocrine and Metabolic Disorder Area. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13068. [PMID: 34884872 PMCID: PMC8658259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is considered the first-choice drug for type 2 diabetes treatment. Actually, pleiotropic effects of metformin have been recognized, and there is evidence that this drug may have a favorable impact on health beyond its glucose-lowering activity. In summary, despite its long history, metformin is still an attractive research opportunity in the field of endocrine and metabolic diseases, age-related diseases, and cancer. To this end, its mode of action in distinct cell types is still in dispute. The aim of this work was to review the current knowledge and recent findings on the molecular mechanisms underlying the pharmacological effects of metformin in the field of metabolic and endocrine pathologies, including some endocrine tumors. Metformin is believed to act through multiple pathways that can be interconnected or work independently. Moreover, metformin effects on target tissues may be either direct or indirect, which means secondary to the actions on other tissues and consequent alterations at systemic level. Finally, as to the direct actions of metformin at cellular level, the intracellular milieu cooperates to cause differential responses to the drug between distinct cell types, despite the primary molecular targets may be the same within cells. Cellular bioenergetics can be regarded as the primary target of metformin action. Metformin can perturb the cytosolic and mitochondrial NAD/NADH ratio and the ATP/AMP ratio within cells, thus affecting enzymatic activities and metabolic and signaling pathways which depend on redox- and energy balance. In this context, the possible link between pyruvate metabolism and metformin actions is extensively discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Tulipano
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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15
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Bouriche S, Alonso-García A, Cárceles-Rodríguez CM, Rezgui F, Fernández-Varón E. An in vivo pharmacokinetic study of metformin microparticles as an oral sustained release formulation in rabbits. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:315. [PMID: 34563196 PMCID: PMC8467142 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03016-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metformin hydrochloride is a biguanide derivative that has been widely used to treat type 2 diabetes in humans. In veterinary medicine, metformin has shown increasing potential for diabetes treatment in different species, such as equids, dogs, cats and rabbits. It is highly hydrophilic, with incomplete gastrointestinal absorption and very large variability in absolute bioavailability between species, ranging from 4% in equids to 60% in humans. Metformin also shows a short half-life of approximately 2 h in dogs, cats, horses and humans. The objectives of this study were to evaluate a poly (lactic acid) (PLA) metformin microparticle formulation to test in rabbits and conduct a pharmacokinetics study of intravenous (SIV) and oral solution (SPO) metformin administration and oral PLA microparticle (SPLA) administration to rabbits to evaluate the improvement in the metformin pharmacokinetics profile. RESULTS Metformin-loaded PLA microparticles were characterized by a spherical shape and high encapsulation efficiency. The results from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy suggested the presence of interactions between metformin and PLA. X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis corroborated the results from the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies, showing that metformin is present in an amorphous state within the microparticles. Physicochemical characterization suggested that PLA and metformin hydrochloride interacted within the microparticles via hydrogen bonding interactions. The pharmacokinetic study in rabbits showed sustained-release characteristics from the prepared microparticles with a delay in the time needed to reach the maximum concentration (Tmax), decreased Cmax and bioavailability, and increased mean residence time (MRT) and half-life compared to the pure drug solution. CONCLUSIONS Metformin-loaded PLA microparticles showed optimal and beneficial properties in terms of their physicochemical characteristics, making them suitable for use in an in vivo pharmacokinetic study. The pharmacokinetic parameters of the metformin microparticles from the in vivo study showed a shorter Tmax, longer MRT and half-life, decreased Cmax and the prolonged/sustained release expected for metformin. However, the unexpected decrease in bioavailability of metformin from the microparticles with respect to the oral solution should be evaluated for microparticle and dose design in future works, especially before being tested in other animal species in veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihem Bouriche
- Laboratoire des Matériaux Organiques (LMO), Faculté de Technologie, Département de Génie des Procédés, Université de Bejaia, 06000, Bejaia, Algeria.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Angela Alonso-García
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Farouk Rezgui
- Laboratoire des Matériaux Organiques (LMO), Faculté de Technologie, Département de Génie des Procédés, Université de Bejaia, 06000, Bejaia, Algeria
| | - Emilio Fernández-Varón
- Department of Pharmacology, Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs. GRANADA), Granada, Spain
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16
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Abdul-Ghani M, DeFronzo RA. Personalized approach for type 2 diabetes pharmacotherapy: where are we and where do we need to be? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:2113-2125. [PMID: 34435523 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1967319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cluster analysis has identified distinct groups of type 2 diabetes (T2D) subjects with distinct metabolic characteristics. Thus, personalizing pharmacologic therapy to individual phenotypic and pathophysiologic characteristics has potential to improve metabolic control and reduce risk of microvascular and macrovascular complications. AREAS COVERED The authors review the classification of T2D, genetic markers, pathophysiology and natural history of T2D, the ABCDE approach to therapy, the ADA/EASD stepwise approach to therapy, available antidiabetic agents, and provide a more rational therapeutic approach based upon pathophysiology and cardiovascular and renal outcome trials. EXPERT OPINION Although insulin resistance is the earliest detectable abnormality, overt T2D does not occur in the absence of progressive beta cell failure. Because of the complex etiology of T2D (Ominous Octet), initiation of therapy with combined agents that (i) target both insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction and (ii) prevent macrovascular, as well as microvascular, complications will be required. The ratio of C-peptide at 120 minutes (OGTT) to baseline C-peptide predicts with high sensitivity who will respond to metformin, the response to glucose-lowering agents and provides a useful tool to guide optimal glucose lowering therapy.
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17
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Rittig N, Aagaard NK, Villadsen GE, Sandahl TD, Jessen N, Grønbaek H, George J. Editorial: metformin for portal hypertension-old dog, new tricks? Authors' reply. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2021; 54:347. [PMID: 34236099 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaj Rittig
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department and Laboratories of Diabetes and Hormone diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Niels Kristian Aagaard
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | | | - Niels Jessen
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Research Laboratories for Biochemical Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henning Grønbaek
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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18
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Rittig N, Aagaard NK, Sundelin E, Villadsen GE, Sandahl TD, Holst JJ, Hartmann B, Brøsen K, Grønbaek H, Jessen N. Metformin Stimulates Intestinal Glycolysis and Lactate Release: A single-Dose Study of Metformin in Patients With Intrahepatic Portosystemic Stent. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2021; 110:1329-1336. [PMID: 34331316 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The pharmacodynamic effects of metformin remain elusive, but several lines of evidence suggest a critical role of direct effects in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We investigated if metformin stimulates intestinal glucose metabolism and lactate release in the prehepatic circulation. We included eight patients with transjugular intrahepatic portosytemic stent in an open label study. Portal and arterialized peripheral blood was obtained before and 90 minutes after ingestion of 1,000 mg metformin. Metformin increased lactate concentrations by 23% (95% confidence interval (CI): 6-40) after 90 minutes in the portal vein. The plasma concentration of glucose, insulin, and C-peptide was higher in the portal vein compared with arterialized blood (P < 0.05, all) and was lowered at both sampling sites following metformin ingestion (P < 0.01, all). Plasma concentration of GLP-1 was 20% (95% CI: 2-38) higher in the portal vein at baseline and metformin increased the concentration with 11% (1.5 pM, P = 0.05). The median concentration of growth differentiation factor 15 was 10% (95% CI: 1-19) higher in the portal vein compared with arterialized blood. Ninety minutes after metformin administration, the median portal vein concentration increased to around 3,000 ng/mL with a mean portal/arterial ratio of 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2-1.8). Non-targeted metabolomics showed that metformin acutely affected benzoate-hippurate metabolism. A single-dose of metformin directly affects substrate metabolism in the upper GI tract in humans with direct stimulation of nonoxidative glucose metabolism. These data suggest glucose lowering effects of metformin can be intrinsically linked with the GI tract without hepatic uptake of the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaj Rittig
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark.,Department and Laboratories of Diabetes and Hormone diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Niels K Aagaard
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Elias Sundelin
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark.,Department and Laboratories of Diabetes and Hormone diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Gerda E Villadsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Thomas D Sandahl
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bolette Hartmann
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kim Brøsen
- Department of Public Health, Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Environmental Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Henning Grønbaek
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Niels Jessen
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
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