Insulin Free Diabetes
Dateline: 05/13/99
A new compound extracted from a leaf fungus may one day free diabetics from the regimen of taking insulin. The compound, dubbed L-783,281, mimics the functions of insulin in the body. Because insulin is a small peptide molecule, and its chemical bonds are destroyed by the acids in the stomach, it cannot be taken orally. However, as a nonpeptide molecule, L-783,281 can be absorbed into the bloodstream when taken orally.
Diabetes results from the body's inability to absorb enough glucose, the "fuel" of the body. Insulin allows the cells to both store and use glucose. Without enough fuel for cellular functions, a variety of adverse reactions can occur. In Type I diabetes, insulin is not produced, and in Type II diabetes the cells are resistant to insulin.
In a unique mass testing, researchers screened some 50,000 compounds to find an effective insulin replacement. The compounds were derived from a variety of sources, and each was tested to see if it would activate the same mechanistic pathway as insulin. An effective compound must bind to insulin receptors in the body and trigger the cascading events necessary to allow the body to store and use glucose.
To test the substances, the scientists used genetically engineered cells with an overabundance of insulin receptor cells. The compounds were introduced to the cultures, and the researchers looked for the activation of a particular enzyme. If the enzyme was activated, the compound produced effects similar to insulin.
After narrowing down the compound base, the scientists gave the L-783,281 to mice orally. Mice have long been used as models for diabetes in humans. The researchers found that the compound reduced the blood sugar in the mice. They are optimistic that with further studies, the pill may also be successful with human diabetics.
Presently, a strict regimen is required to control diabetes. Depending on the type and severity, as many as four shots of insulin a day are necessary to control blood sugar levels. In addition, diet and behavioral modifications are necessary to prevent many of the devastating effects that may result from the disease. It is estimated that approximately 11% of the population will either develop some form of diabetes or be highly susceptible to it.
What do you think? Will this new substance lead to better management of diabetes? Come over to the Biology Forum and share your thoughts, opinions and feelings. 'Til next time...
For additional information see:
Compound That Mimics Insulin Might Lead To Pill For Diabetes
ScienceDaily report about the study.
About.com's Diabetes Site
Loads of information on diabetes.
