Endocrine Abstracts

A decrease in the number of functional insulin producing beta-cells contributes to the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes. The putative factors responsible for the maladaptation of beta-cells include hyperglycaemia, cytokines, dyslipidemia and leptin. Islet inflammation, autoimmunity and some drugs may be secondary modulators. Predetermined amount of beta-cell mass, sensitivity to pro-apoptotic signals and regeneration potential of beta-cells are predisposing factors. The mech...