How pyruvate kinase M2 helps insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells work
Metabolic Functions of Pyruvate Kinase M2 in Pancreatic Beta-cells
Seeing if activating a protein called pyruvate kinase can boost insulin release from pancreas cells to help people with type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11328927 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are using drugs that activate pyruvate kinase and measuring insulin secretion from mouse, rat, and human pancreatic islets as well as diabetic animals. They are studying how pyruvate kinase isoforms (PKm1 and PKm2) interact with the GLP‑1 hormone and the cell signaling molecule cAMP to amplify insulin release. Experiments combine lab work on human tissue and animal models to pinpoint the metabolic steps and signaling pathways involved. Findings will guide whether targeting this enzyme could become a new way to increase insulin secretion in people with type 2 diabetes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with type 2 (adult‑onset) diabetes, particularly those who do not secrete enough insulin, would be the most relevant group.
Not a fit: People with type 1 diabetes caused by autoimmune destruction of beta cells are less likely to benefit from treatments that boost remaining beta‑cell function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could point to new treatments that increase insulin secretion for people with type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab and animal work, including tests on human islets, showed pyruvate kinase activators can increase insulin release, but benefit in patients has not yet been demonstrated.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merrins, Matthew J. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Merrins, Matthew J.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.