Scientists surprised to find human body makes its own Ozempic version
New study finds pancreatic cells can produce GLP-1
- A new study by Duke University researchers has revealed that pancreatic alpha cells, previously thought to only produce glucagon, can also produce the diabetes-controlling hormone GLP-1.
- Published in Science Advances, the research found that when glucagon production is blocked, these alpha cells “switch gears” to significantly increase GLP-1 levels, enhancing insulin release and blood sugar control.
- This discovery, observed in both mouse and human pancreatic tissue, suggests the body possesses a “built-in backup plan” to manage blood sugar, with GLP-1 being a more powerful signal for beta cells than glucagon.
- Scientists hope this newfound flexibility of alpha cells can be leveraged to develop more natural and effective treatments for type 2 diabetes by boosting the body's own GLP-1 production.
- The study manipulated enzymes, confirming that blocking glucagon-driving PC2 boosted GLP-1-producing PC1 activity, highlighting GLP-1's critical role in glucose regulation.