Monash University researchers have discovered the inhibition of β-cell (beta cell) regeneration that could be a way to better treatments for diabetes and diseases that lead to include organ damage and tissue.
The human body does not repair itself well, with our liver the only organ that can regenerate effectively. We have a limited ability to regenerate new cells or tissues after birth because the genes involved in development are switched off.
This process occurs through DNA methylation, a biological process in which chemicals (methyl groups) are written on DNA and alter the way the gene works. This mutation effectively suppresses genes of progenitor cells (early progenitors of cells) in the body and thus the ability of the pancreas to generate the insulin β-cells.
Using mouse models, the study was published in Regenerative medicine, led by Professor Sam El-Osta of the Monash Central Clinical School, found that DNA methylation content in the two major developmental genes Ngn3 and Sox 11 was reduced, effectively making them ‘repair’ at rest.
However, through demethylation, progenitor cells can be regenerated, restoring their ability to become new insulin-releasing beta cells paving the way to improved treatments for Type 1 diabetes. and Type 2.
The collaboration between Dr. Keith Al-Hasani and Dr. Ishant Khurana has revealed remarkable results. Their discovery that DNA methylation is a barrier to scientists ’adult beta-cell regeneration to restore beta-cell activity in the pancreas. “
Professor Sam El-Osta, Monash Central Clinical School
Currently, replacement of whole pancreas or islets is a substitute for damaged β-cell mass in diabetic patients. Although effective, these treatments counteract the shortage of organ donors along with the side effects associated with antipsychotic drugs.
Conventional research focuses on the replacement of lost β-cells in diabetic patients using a number of methods and cell sources. However, in order to make use of these regenerative methods, it is essential to understand how tight and cellular processes are controlled during development.
The study’s co-author, Dr Keith Al-Hasani, said: “This is an important novel and discovery that allows us to use these“ sleeping beauties ”(stem cells as cells) to wake up and be insulin cells to treat diabetes. “
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Magazine Reference:
Khurana, I., et al. (2021) DNA methylation status is related to the ability of adult β-cell regeneration. Regenerative Medicine npj. doi.org/10.1038/s41536-021-00119-1.