Modulation of P2 Receptors on Pancreatic β-cells by Agonists and Antagonists: A Molecular Target for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

Title:Modulation of P2 Receptors on Pancreatic β-cells by Agonists and Antagonists: A Molecular Target for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

Volume: 9 Issue: 3

Author(s): Paulo Anastacio Furtado Pacheco, Leonardo Gomes Braga Ferreira, Luiz Anastacio Alves and Robson Xavier Faria

Affiliation:

Keywords: P2 receptors, Diabetes, Antagonists, Pancreatic B-cells

Abstract: Morbidity and mortality from diabetes mellitus (DM) are serious worldwide concerns. By the year 2030, the estimated number of diabetic patients will reach a staggering 439 million worldwide. Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2), which involves disturbances in both insulin secretion and resistance, is the most common form of diabetes and affects approximately 5 to 7% of the world's population. When a patient with DM2 cannot regulate his or her blood glucose levels through diet, weight loss, or exercise, oral medications, such as hypoglycemic agents (i.e., sulphonylureas, biguanides, alpha glucosidase inhibitors and thiazolidinediones), are crucial. Here, we discuss some physiological aspects of P2 receptors on pancreatic β-cells, which express a variety of P2 receptor isoforms. These receptors enhance glucose-dependent insulin release. In addition, we speculate on the potential of purinergic compounds as novel or additional treatments for Type 2 Diabetes mellitus.

Cite this article as:

Anastacio Furtado Pacheco Paulo, Gomes Braga Ferreira Leonardo, Anastacio Alves Luiz and Xavier Faria Robson, Modulation of P2 Receptors on Pancreatic β-cells by Agonists and Antagonists: A Molecular Target for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment, Current Diabetes Reviews 2013; 9 (3) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1573399811309030004