Scientists have identified how a gene drives cell dysfunction seen in people with type 2 diabetes, in findings that could pave the way for new interventions.
The team from City of Hope in California have discovered that the gene SMOC1 plays a part in converting insulin-producing cells in the pancreas into cells which raise blood sugar.
The discovery means that in the future, SMOC1 could be used a biomarker in beta-cell malfunction to help diagnose type 2 diabetes.
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In addition, it opens up the possibility of blocking this particular gene or reversing its effects to support insulin production in people with diabetes.
Pancreatic islets are clusters of cells that make and release hormones. Beta cells make insulin that lowers blood sugar while alpha cells make glucagon that raises blood sugar levels.
This hormonal balance is vital in maintaining normal blood sugar levels but in people with type 2 diabetes, beta cells start to act more like alpha cells, which upends blood sugar levels.
Scientists from City of Hope set out to find out what causes beta cells to start behaving in this way, analysing cells from a group of 26 people, half with type 2 diabetes and half without the condition.
They identified five different types of islet cells, each with its own path and genetic make-up.
Lead author Adolfo Garcia-Ocaña explained: “In healthy people, islet cells can mature in different directions—some become more like alpha cells, others like beta cells. But in type 2 diabetes, the path only goes one way: beta cells start imitating alpha cells. This shift may explain why insulin levels drop and glucagon levels rise in people with the disease.”
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The researchers found that SMOC1 played a significant role in cells switching from beta to alpha identity, and that SMOC1 activity in the wrong place resulted in a drop in insulin production and the activity of genes shaping beta cell identity slowing to a standstill.
All this means that SMOC1 in beta cells reduces circulating insulin, affecting blood sugar levels – offering further insight into how type 2 diabetes develops.
Dr Garcia-Ocaña said: “Our results indicate that SMOC1 drives beta cell dysfunction and the cells’ shift toward an alpha cell-like state. This helps explain why insulin levels fall and glucagon levels rise in people with type 2 diabetes.”
The discovery that some cells can switch identities could pave the way for the reprogramming of cells to reinstate insulin production.
Read more in Nature Communications
