Menin Gene Mutation made Insulin Secreting Cells to Proliferate

Source: University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
Posted: July 6, 2006

Summary:

Acute loss of a protein named menin – involved in tumor-suppression or cell-proliferation-suppressing function resulted in the proliferation of pancreatic islet cells, which again affected blood sugar regulation - researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reports.

In humans menin gene (Men1) mutation can lead to a genetic disease called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) and this discovery also has implications for diabetes treatment.

Commenntary: This finding seems as if it could eventually be translated into an effective treatment or part of any effective treatment for diabetes and improve the quality of life for diabetes patients.