The importance of lipid regulation of metabolic and redox status in pancreatic beta cell function and integrity: implications for type-2 diabetes

Abstract

Progression to type 2 diabetes correlates with oxidative damage in beta-cells due to lipotoxicity, however the mechanisms underlying this progressive beta-cell failure are still uncertain. Thus in this study we aim too determine the effect of prolonged culture in the presence of saturated or polyunsaturated fatty acids on the functional integrity of the pancreatic beta cell. We hypothesize that prolonged culture in the presence of Polyunsaturated fatty acids (such as Arachidonic acid) may have protective effects via promotion of metabolic pathway activity, generation of stimulus-secretion coupling factors, enhanced insulin secretion, increased levels and activity of anti-oxidant enzymes, levels of signal transduction elements and regulation of gene expression with respect to pancreatic beta cell function. In contrast, prolonged culture in the presence of saturated fatty acids (such as palmitate) will lead to beta cell dysfunction. (AU)