A little-known protein could be a major culprit in type 2 diabetes
Scientists have discovered that a buildup of a protein called Miro1 may be a hidden driver of insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetes, with preclinical experiments showing that removing it restores the muscles’ response to insulin. Exercise was also found to lower Miro1 levels in people with diabetes, revealing a potential new pathway for treating the disease.
A protein called Miro1 may play a significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes by hindering the body's insulin response. Researchers discovered that individuals with type 2 diabetes have higher levels of this protein in their skeletal muscles. In preclinical studies, blocking Miro1 restored the muscles' insulin response. Exercise also appeared to lower Miro1 levels in people with diabetes, improving their insulin sensitivity.
Miro1 is located on the outer membrane of mitochondria, which are cell structures responsible for energy production. The researchers believe excessive amounts of this protein interfere with muscle insulin response, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar effectively. To explore this connection, the research team examined Miro1 in laboratory cells, preclinical models, and people with type 2 diabetes.
The study, published in Nature Communications, could lead to new treatments that improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes by targeting Miro1. Dr. John P. Kirwan, the study's senior author, stated that identifying Miro1 as a key factor in insulin resistance offers a new therapeutic target and deepens our understanding of why exercise is effective in managing diabetes.
Written by urgent.news from ScienceDaily Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- A little-known protein could be a major culprit in type 2 diabetes sciencedaily.com
