A hundred million Indians are currently grappling with type-2 diabetes, making India home to one-fifth of diabetic patients worldwide. Understanding the inner workings of diabetes is crucial for developing effective treatment methods. In a significant breakthrough, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, have made strides in this area.
Type-2 diabetes occurs when beta-cells in the pancreas, responsible for producing and storing insulin, are affected. These beta-cells also produce a protein called islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), which can aggregate and cause the death of beta-cells, leading to a decrease in insulin production and the onset of diabetes. This creates a vicious cycle where beta-cells inadvertently contribute to their own demise.
Fortunately, the body has a defense mechanism in place known as extracellular vesicles (EVs). These are tiny ‘bubbles’ released by cells that transport molecules, such as proteins and RNA, to prevent the harmful accumulation of amyloid proteins. The production of EVs by multivesicular bodies (MVB) inside cells helps safeguard beta-cells from stress-induced damage.
The research conducted by the IISc’s Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics has revealed that in type-2 diabetic individuals, there is a reduced presence of MVBs in beta-cells compared to non-diabetic individuals. This decrease in MVBs can lead to dysfunction in beta-cells, resulting in a lower secretion of insulin granules.
This groundbreaking discovery could pave the way for a new approach to diabetes treatment using small molecules that can penetrate cells and interact with various cellular components, including proteins, DNA, and RNA. This drug-free method aims to strengthen the body’s natural defense mechanisms to combat diabetes.
The next step for researchers is to develop small molecules that can enhance beta-cell function, protect them from toxic protein aggregates, and boost insulin secretion. While AI may aid in identifying the right small molecules for this purpose, further research is needed to assess any potential side effects on other cells and to determine the scalability of EV production.
By harnessing the power of small molecules and leveraging the body’s own defenses, this innovative approach holds promise for a future where diabetes can be managed effectively without the need for traditional drug-based treatments. The research team at IISc is now focused on refining and testing these small molecules to potentially revolutionize diabetes care.
