Diabetes Breakthrough: Innovative Cause Revealed
Researchers in Ohio have unveiled a potential breakthrough in understanding diabetes, offering fresh avenues for treatment.
The study, conducted by scientists at Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals in Cleveland, explored a novel enzyme linked to insulin regulation.
Insight into Diabetes Cause:
Traditionally, diabetes has been characterized by the body’s inability to produce sufficient insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. The study, published in Cell on December 5, focused on nitric oxide, a compound known for its role in various bodily functions, such as dilating blood vessels, improving memory, and fighting infections.
The research identified a unique enzyme called SNO-CoA-assisted nitrosylase (SCAN), acting as a ‘carrier’ for nitric oxide. Notably, SCAN enzymes play a crucial role in normal insulin action. However, heightened SCAN activity was observed in both diabetic patients and mice. Mouse models lacking the SCAN enzyme displayed a protective shield against diabetes, suggesting that excessive nitric oxide on proteins could be a contributing factor to the disease.
Implications for Treatment:
Lead researcher Jonathan Stamler highlighted the significance of this finding, stating that blocking the SCAN enzyme protected against diabetes. The implications extend beyond diabetes, potentially offering new treatments for various diseases caused by enzymes adding nitric oxide to proteins.
Stamler emphasized, “Too much enzyme activity causes diabetes. But a case is made for many enzymes putting nitric oxide on many proteins, and, thus, new treatments for many diseases.”
Future Prospects and Related Discoveries:
The discovery follows a recent development where an existing drug demonstrated efficacy in preventing Type 1 diabetes.
A pioneering trial revealed that a rheumatoid arthritis drug could preserve the body’s insulin production and slow the progression of type 1 diabetes in newly diagnosed individuals.
Thus, the identification of the SCAN enzyme and its role in regulating nitric oxide on insulin receptors opens up promising possibilities for treating diabetes and potentially other related diseases.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Mirror
