Transcriptional regulation of lipid metabolism by fatty acids: a key determinant of pancreatic β-cell function

• Main Authors: Chan Catherine B, Fatehi-Hassanabad Zahra
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2005-01-01
• Series: Nutrition & Metabolism
• Online Access: http://www.nutritionandmetabolism.com/content/2/1/1

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Optimal pancreatic β-cell function is essential for the regulation of glucose homeostasis in both humans and animals and its impairment leads to the development of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a polygenic disease aggravated by environmental factors such as low physical activity or a hypercaloric high-fat diet.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Free fatty acids represent an important factor linking excess fat mass to type 2 diabetes. Several studies have shown that chronically elevated free fatty acids have a negative effect on β-cell function leading to elevated insulin secretion basally but with an impaired response to glucose. The transcription factors PPARα, PPARγ and SREBP-1c respond to changing fat concentrations in tissues, thereby coordinating the genomic response to altered metabolic conditions to promote either fat storage or catabolism. These transcription factors have been identified in β-cells and it appears that each may exert influence on β-cell function in health and disease.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>The role of the PPARs and SREBP-1c as potential mediators of lipotoxicity is an emerging area of interest.</p>