Metals in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Minerals are one of the components of food, though they are not synthesized in the body but they are essential for optimal health. Several essential metals are required for the proper functioning of many enzymes, transcriptional factors and proteins important in various biochemical pathways. For example Zn, Mg and Mn are cofactors of hundreds of enzymes, and Zn is involved in the synthesis and secretion of insulin from the pancreatic beta-cells. Similarly, Cr enhances the insulin receptor activity on target tissues, especially in muscle cells. Insulin is the key hormone required to maintain the blood glucose level in normal range. In case of insulin deficiency or resistance, blood glucose concentration exceeds the upper limit of the normal range of 126 mg/dl. Persistent increase of blood serum glucose level leads to overt chronic hyperglycemia, which is a major clinical symptom of diabetes mellitus. Poor glycemic control and diabetes alters the levels of essential trace elements such as Zn, Mg, Mn, Cr, Fe etc. by increasing urinary excretion and their concomitant decrease in the blood. Hence, the main purpose of this review is to discuss the important roles of essential trace elements in normal homeostasis and physiological functioning. Moreover, perturbation of essential trace elements is also discussed in perspective of type 2 diabetes pathobiology.

Nutritional potential of underutilized gum arabic tree seeds (acacia nilotica) and locust bean seeds (Parkia biglobosa)

“…In addition, it has been identified to play a significant role in the release of insulin and the maintenance of pancreatic β-cells. Its deficiency has been implicated in insulin resistance and carbohydrate intolerance as well as diabetic complications and dyslipidemia (Piero et al, 2012;Akhuemokhan et al, 2013;Khan and Awan, 2014).…”

Occupational Exposures and Metabolic Syndrome Among Hispanics/Latinos

“…Metals, such as arsenic, cadmium, and lead, have been shown to either directly or indirectly cause oxidative stress, which promotes pancreatic islet cell dysfunction that can lead to insulin resistance. 17,18 Other studies suggest that solvents and pesticides, in addition to metals, may be endocrine disruptors and lead to weight gain. 19,20 Some pesticides have also been shown to induce insulin resistance through multiple mechanisms, including the formation of advanced glycation end products, accumulation of lipid metabolites, activation of inflammatory pathways, generation of oxidative stress, and increased biosynthesis of triglycerides.…”

Comparative study on proximate, functional, mineral and anti-nutrient composition of fermented, defatted and protein isolate of Parkia biglobosa seed

“…Added to this, it has been identified to play a significant role in the release of insulin and the maintenance of pancreatic β-cells. Its deficiency has been implicated in insulin resistance and carbohydrate intolerance as well as diabetic complications and dyslipidemia (Piero et al 2012;Akhuemokhan et al 2013;Khan and Awan 2014). Zinc was also appreciably detected in the protein isolate.…”