Replenishing the insulin-producing β-cell mass is considered to be a potential cure for diabetes. A recent study identified a secreted protein, known as betatrophin, which potently induces pancreatic β-cell proliferation. Notably, a number of studies reportedly identified betatrophin, which is also known as lipasin, atypical angiopoietin-like 8 and refeeding-induced fat and liver protein, and c...

BACKGROUND Betatrophin has been suggested as an inducer of β-cell proliferation in mice in addition to its function in regulating triglyceride. Recent data showed that betatrophin was increased in Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), however, its ability to induce insulin production has been questioned. We hypothesized that the increased betatrophin in T2D is not affecting insulin production from β-cells. To...

Replenishing insulin-producing pancreatic β cell mass will benefit both type I and type II diabetics. In adults, pancreatic β cells are generated primarily by self-duplication. We report on a mouse model of insulin resistance that induces dramatic pancreatic β cell proliferation and β cell mass expansion. Using this model, we identify a hormone, betatrophin, that is primarily expressed in liver...

As an early hallmark of type 2 diabetes, the associated insulin resistance in peripheral tissues demands extra insulin production from the pancreatic b cells. Circulating glucose has long been recognized as the primary messenger, triggering acute and prolonged insulin secretion via well-defined biochemical pathways in b cells. However, additional mechanisms are in place to safeguard against lag...