Research conducted by scientists at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis suggests problems controlling blood sugar might begin in the intestines, according to a university news release.
Previous studies have focused on the pancreas, where insulin is produced, and the liver, where sugar is stored. In this study, researchers studied mice that are unable to make fatty acid synthase, an enzyme crucial for lipid production and regulated by insulin. People with diabetes have defects in FAS production. Mice without the enzyme in the intestines developed chronic inflammation in the gut, a predictor of diabetes.
The study was published in Cell Host & Microbe.
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Previous studies have focused on the pancreas, where insulin is produced, and the liver, where sugar is stored. In this study, researchers studied mice that are unable to make fatty acid synthase, an enzyme crucial for lipid production and regulated by insulin. People with diabetes have defects in FAS production. Mice without the enzyme in the intestines developed chronic inflammation in the gut, a predictor of diabetes.
The study was published in Cell Host & Microbe.
Related Articles on Gastroenterology:
Editorial: Endoscopists Need to Measure Quality Endpoints
Kansas Gastroenterology and Kansas Endoscopy Renovate Building for New Location
Given Imaging Income Up 76% in 4Q 2011