Development of Therapeutic Agents with a Novel Mechanism of Action Targeting Pancreatic β-Cells for Diabetes

Abstract

Although diabetes is associated with an increased risk of various diseases, including cancer and infectious diseases, no definitive cure has yet been found. Long-term treatment for blood glucose control significantly reduces the QOL. Pancreatic β-cells are the only cells that can lower blood glucose levels by secreting insulin. Therefore, maintaining insulin-secreting β-cells is crucial in preventing the progression of diabetes and improving the QOL. We have investigated the mechanisms for the regulation of insulin secretion, the prevention of β-cell apoptosis, and the increase in β-cell mass. In particular, we have elucidated the involvement of type I diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) in the regulation of insulin secretion and the effects of nitric oxide (NO) signaling and natural products in suppressing β-cell death. In addition, we have elucidated the function of DGKδ as a suppressor of β-cell proliferation. This review introduces the findings of our study leading to development of novel anti-diabetic therapeutics that targets pancreatic β-cells.