New study uncovers role of beta cells in development of diabetes

Millions around the world suffer from the chronic disease of diabetes. High blood glucose level results from improper insulin production or utilization.

According to a recent study by scientists at Weill Cornell Medical, type 2 diabetes may occur as a result of the death of a certain type of beta cell.

---

What are beta cells?

Beta cells are cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar level in the body.

There are various types of beta cells that produce insulin, and these cells play an essential role in glucose homeostasis:

Cluster 1 Beta Cells and Diabetes

Cluster 1 Beta Cells (Image via Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk)

The study conducted by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers found that the loss of a particular type of beta cell called Cluster 1 beta cells may contribute to type 2 diabetes. Cluster 1 beta cells produce more insulin than other beta cells and are better in metabolizing sugar.

The study also found that mice fed an obesity-inducing, high-fat diet and type 2 diabetic mice had decreased numbers of cluster 1 beta cells. As the numbers of cluster 1 beta cells went down, there was less insulin production, which may play a significant role in diabetes development.

---

What does that mean for diabetes treatment?

The finding of Cluster 1 beta cell loss may have significant effects on diabetic management.

For instance, it could be preferable to solely transplant beta cells with high CD63 levels. The transplantation of fewer highly productive cells may also be an option. The study also discovered that type 2 diabetics have less elevated CD63 beta cells than people without the disease.

The results of the study imply that subtyping beta cells and researching the function of these unique Cluster 1 beta cells in diabetes may be essential.

---

What's next for diabetes research?

Dr. James Lo, associate professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, and his colleagues would like to find out what happens to the high CD63-producing beta cells in diabetic mice and how to keep them from disappearing.

The researchers think that by figuring out how to prolong the survival and functionality of these beta cells, we may be able to develop more effective treatments or preventative measures.

---

Effective ways to manage diabetes

Effective ways to manage blood sugar level (Image via Pexels/Artem Podrez)

While research is ongoing, there are many effective ways to manage it. Here are some things you can do:

Have a healthy diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats can help manage blood sugar level.

Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower blood sugar level.

Monitor blood sugar level: Monitoring blood sugar level can help you understand how different foods, activities and medications affect blood sugar level.

Take medication as prescribed: If you have been prescribed medication to manage your blood sugar, it's essential to take them as prescribed by your doctor.

Manage stress: Stress can raise blood sugar level, so finding ways to manage stress, like meditation, deep breathing or yoga, can be beneficial.

---

The loss of cluster 1 beta cells may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

While more research is needed to fully understand the implications of this discovery, it may lead to better ways to treat or prevent the condition in the future. In the meantime, following the aforementioned tips can help you stay healthy and keep blood sugar level under control.