Novel Targets in Glucose Homeostasis and Obesity —Lesson from Rare Mutations
AbstractPurpose of ReviewObesity and diabetes have already become the second largest risk factor for cardiovascular disease. During the last decade, remarkable advances have been made in understanding the human genome ’s contribution to glucose homeostasis disorders and obesity. A few studies on rare mutations of candidate genes provide potential genetic targets for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. In this review, we discussed the detailed findings of these studies and the possible causalities between spe cific genetic variations and dysfunctions in energy or glucose homeostasis. We are optimistic that novel therap...
Source: Current Diabetes Reports - October 31, 2020 Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research
The Road to Approval: a Perspective on the Role of Icosapent Ethyl in Cardiovascular Risk Reduction
AbstractPurpose of ReviewEpidemiological studies have long suggested the cardiovascular benefits of omega-3 fatty acids (OM3FAs). However, until recently, clinical trials using OM3FAs have been largely negative with respect to their cardioprotective effects. In this review, we aim to summarize key clinical trials, examine the clinical benefits of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and potential mechanisms, and review the changes in guidelines and recommendations.Recent FindingsThe Reduction of Cardiovascular Events with Icosapent Ethyl-Intervention Trial (REDUCE-IT) has demonstrated significant cardiovascular mortality benefits o...
Source: Current Diabetes Reports - October 23, 2020 Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research
Tissue-Specific Fructose Metabolism in Obesity and Diabetes
The objective of this review is to provide up-to-date and comprehensive discussion of tissue-specific fructose metabolism in the context of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).Recent FindingsIncreased intake of dietary fructose is a risk factor for a myriad of metabolic complications. Tissue-specific fructose metabolism has not been well delineated in terms of its contribution to detrimental health effects associated with fructose intake. Since inhibitors targeting fructose metabolism are being developed for the management of NAFLD and diabetes, it is essential to recognize how inability of...
Source: Current Diabetes Reports - October 15, 2020 Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research
What Makes Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter-2 Inhibitors Stand out in Heart Failure?
AbstractPurpose of ReviewWe highlight the unique properties of the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2 inhibitors) which may lend favorably to their efficient integration in the background of other heart failure (HF) therapies. We also discuss the unique aspects of SGLT-2 inhibitor dosing, lack of titration needs, effects on kidney function and electrolytes, diuretic activity, and safety in the high-risk peri-hospitalization window.Recent FindingsDapagliflozin was recently approved for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), irrespective of the presence or absence of type 2 diabetes mellit...
Source: Current Diabetes Reports - October 11, 2020 Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research
Current State of Diabetes Mellitus Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control in Latin America: Challenges and Innovative Solutions to Improve Health Outcomes Across the Continent
AbstractPurpose of ReviewLatin America is the scenario of great inequalities where about 32 million human beings live with diabetes. Through this review, we aimed at describing the current state of the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of diabetes mellitus and completion of selected guidelines of care across Latin America and identify opportunities to advance research that promotes better health outcomes.Recent FindingsThe prevalence of diabetes mellitus has been consistently increasing across the region, with some variation: higher prevalence in Mexico, Haiti, and Puerto Rico and lower in Colombia, Ecuador, Do...
Source: Current Diabetes Reports - October 10, 2020 Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research
