A new study by Duke University has shown that pancreatic alpha cells are capable of producing the hormone GLP-1—an analog of the active ingredients in popular anti-diabetic drugs. This finding may pave the way for more natural ways to control blood sugar levels in Type 2 diabetes.
Scientists at Duke University have identified an unexpected mechanism in the pancreas that could be a breakthrough in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. According to the study, published in the journal Science Advances, pancreatic alpha cells are capable of switching from producing glucagon to synthesizing the hormone GLP-1—an analog of the active ingredients in the drugs Ozempic and Wegovy.
It was previously believed that GLP-1 was produced only in the gut, but the experiment showed that when glucagon is blocked, alpha cells begin actively producing GLP-1. This hormone enhances insulin secretion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
“Alpha cells are more flexible than we thought. They can adapt and maintain sugar balance, helping out the beta cells,” noted the study’s lead author, Dr. Jonathan Campbell.
The scientists’ work demonstrated that human pancreatic tissue can produce significantly higher levels of bioactive GLP-1 than previously assumed. This opens up prospects for the development of new therapeutic methods that would naturally enhance insulin secretion without external intervention.
The researchers emphasize that the body has a “built-in backup plan” for controlling sugar levels that can be activated under certain conditions. If this process can be safely stimulated, medicine will gain a new tool in the fight against Type 2 diabetes.
