Diabetes
Glucose Metabolism Case Study
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The case study “Diabetes” involves the diagnosis of diabetes in a young patient in a hospital setting. After the introduction, the study examines the regulation of glucose, the molecular basis of diabetes, leading to a diagnosis of either type 1 or type 2 disease. During the course of the study, the students use materials from the textbook and additional web links to cover the following concepts:
• Glucose metabolism and the glycolytic cycle (Figure 12-3 from text)
• Secretory cell types in the pancreas (e.g., α, β, δ, γ)
• GLUT protein involvement in insulin release (Chapter 11, p. 480)
• Stimulation of insulin release from β-cells (Chapter 16, p. 765)
• Introduction to blood glucose tests and subsequent data interpretation
• Link between type 1 diabetes and apoptosis (Chapter 21, p. 1021)
• Use of stem cell technologies as a treatment strategy for type 1 diabetes
• Signaling pathways used to mobilize GLUT proteins in insulin-responsive cells
Additional information is provided at the end of the case study from the Mayo Clinic with respect to: diagnosis, risk factors, complications, tests/diagnosis, and treatment.
Students are awarded points for answering questions throughout the activity, for understanding the molecular basis of diabetes, interpreting lab results, suggesting follow-up experiments, and so forth. Each question is worth 1 point. Multiple choice questions are automatically graded; students are given one opportunity to correct an incorrect answer before moving on. Short-answer questions are accepted provisionally; instructors must evaluate the answers and determine whether they are acceptable. The final score is recorded in the gradebook.
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Aaron Sykes, the newest intern in the urgent care department at Cook County General Hospital, is seeing patients with the attending pediatrics physician, Dr. Erika Gonzalez. Their first patient of the day is Cecile, a 10-year-old girl brought in by her parents when she complained of blurred vision, fatigue, and excessive thirst.
"Good morning, Cecile, how are you feeling today?" Dr. Gonzalez asks as she enters the examination room.
"Better," Cecile replies, "although I am still a little thirsty."
"Okay, we will get you some water to help with your thirst," Dr. Gonzalez replies. She turns and greets the parents and then says, "The nurse will be here in a few minutes to draw some blood because we need to run a few tests. Try to relax and we will be back this afternoon with a better picture of what is going on."
Drs. Sykes and Gonzalez step into the hallway and review the patient history on the medical forms.
Dr. Sykes states, "Cecile has been experiencing several symptoms, including excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue. Her parents had noticed changes over the past month or so, but when she complained about her vision they decided to bring her to the hospital."
Dr. Gonzalez says, "These are classic signs of diabetes. To confirm this diagnosis, and also to establish whether it is type 1 or type 2, we need to do bloodwork and determine what her glucose levels are."
Glucose Metabolism
Glucose is an important energy source that is used in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. In mammalian cells, glucose enters the glycolytic pathway, and products are formed that will be used in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle within the mitochondria. Ultimately, products of the TCA cycle will feed into the electron transport chain to produce ATP for energy. In the context of diabetes, if the cells of the body are unable to efficiently extract glucose from the blood, then these downstream biochemical pathways will be negatively affected. In addition, high glucose levels in the blood, stemming from an inability to be taken up by cells, can have deleterious effects as well. Learn more about the pathophysiology of diabetes at: http://www.news-medical.net/health/Diabetes-Pathophysiology.aspx
Figure 12-3 shows the glycolytic pathway.
The pancreas is responsible for glucose metabolism and contains various types of secretory cells devoted to this goal. The α cells express glucagon to stimulate an increase in glucose production; β cells secrete insulin to promote uptake of glucose in skeletal muscle and fat cells; δ cells secrete somatostatin to regulate α and β cells; and γ cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. Certain tissues are responsive to glucose uptake dependent on insulin levels, while others can take up glucose independent of insulin. Glucose enters all cells by facilitated diffusion mediated by the GLUT family of proteins.
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 is expressed primarily on β cells and liver cells and is not dependent on insulin for mobilization to the cell surface. Influx of glucose leads to production of ATP through ATP synthase in the mitochondria, and ultimately to the influx of calcium which causes the release of insulin into the blood.
GLUT insulin-dependent proteins (e.g., GLUT4 in skeletal muscle and adipocytes) are normally localized in vesicles under the plasma membrane. Insulin signaling through the insulin receptor then causes activation of a cell-signaling pathway through Akt and subsequent mobilization of the vesicles to the cell surface. Once the GLUT proteins are situated in the plasma membrane, glucose can move with the concentration gradient into the cell.
Two of the clinical signs of diabetes include excessive thirst and increased urination. This stems from the fact that glucose is normally filtered in the Bowman’s capsule in the kidney, but completely resorbed from the kidney tubules by the blood. When excess glucose occurs from diabetes, there is retention of glucose in the urine, which in turn tends to pull in excess water because of osmosis and increases urination. The loss of water in the blood due to osmosis causes the patient becomes thirsty to replace the lost water.
Blood Laboratory
Dr. Sykes considered the four standard blood tests to screen for diabetes: (1) the glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test, (2) the fasting plasma glucose test (FPG), (3) the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and (4) the random plasma glucose test (RPG). Read about these tests and their pros and cons at: http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/diagnostic-tests/comparing-tests-diabetes-prediabetes/Pages/index.aspx
In type 1 diabetes the patient is not able to produce sufficient levels of insulin; in type 2 diabetes the patient produces sufficient insulin, but the cells do not respond to appropriately to insulin in the blood.
Dr. Sykes decides to order the OGTT test, which requires Cecile to fast the night before, then drink a glucose-based liquid. Blood samples are drawn immediately before drinking (zero time point), then at 30-minute intervals for 2 hours. The glucose levels are then determined from the blood samples.
For the OGTT assay, a glucose level above 200 mg/dL is an indicator for diabetes. Cecile’s OGTT assay shows a glucose level peaking at about 225 mg/dL. Dr. Sykes decides to test insulin levels from the same blood samples that were isolated at the time points described for the glucose test. The results of this assay are shown below.
Treatment
Drs. Sykes and Gonzalez find that the results of the tests confirm type 1 diabetes and they discuss the diagnosis with Cecile and her parents. They mention that the most effective treatment strategy involves: (1) taking insulin, (2) counting carbohydrates, (3) frequently monitoring blood sugar levels, (4) eating healthy foods, and (5) exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight.
Dr. Gonzalez states, "Exercise and diet play a role, but monitoring sugar levels and taking insulin are very important in making sure that you don't have diabetes-related health problems in the future, Cecile. Insulin can be directly injected, or administered through a pump."
Dr. Sykes added, "Soon it will be possible to use an artificial pancreas that links a continuous glucose monitor to an insulin pump. Clinical trials have actually started on these devices."
The family decides to go with the insulin pump, and move to the artificial pancreas once it has been more thoroughly tested. Dr. Gonzalez also mentions the future possibility of stem cells placed into a scaffold, which would develop into β-pancreatic cells. The cells could respond to glucose levels and secrete insulin when needed.
Autoimmmune diseases stem from the failure of the immune system to eliminate T cells that react to proteins on the body’s own cells. In type 1 diabetes, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells can attack β-pancreatic cells, and B cells can produce antibodies against β-pancreatic cell proteins. Although new β-pancreatic cells can be made, more cells are destroyed than produced. After about an 80% reduction in the β-pancreatic cells, insulin production is insufficient to meet the demands of the body, and type 1 diabetes symptoms result.
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 Dr. Gonzalez mentioned, one potential avenue for a cure for type 1 diabetes is the development of a scaffold for stem cells that would differentiate into β-pancreatic cells. These replacement cells would essentially serve as a replacement pancreas.
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Once PKB (Akt) is activated in skeletal muscle or fat cells in response to insulin signaling, this protein phosphorylates a downstream protein that causes the rapid fusion of intracellular vesicles containing GLUT4 with the plasma membrane. These cells are then able to take up glucose from the blood by facilitated transport with the concentration gradient (higher glucose levels in blood than in cells).
Given the localization profile of GLUT4 above for skeletal muscle biopsied from Patient X and Patient Y, which would represent the expected phenotype from a patient with type 1 diabetes? With type 2 diabetes?
Type 1: | qrabDn9MokRB1n05Rrk/Lbd5RwFmoQkooui//A== |
Type 2: | I1hbyWp2vX2598Nfqh7nC2fz4gmMlx5ANrqL8A== |
Additional Information: Type 1 Diabetes
Diagnosis
Type 1 diabetes signs and symptoms can come on quickly and may include:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/basics/symptoms/con-20019573
Risk Factors:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/basics/risk-factors/con-20019573
Complications:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/basics/complications/con-20019573
Tests and diagnosis:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/basics/tests-diagnosis/con-20019573
Treatment:
Insulin can't be taken orally to lower blood sugar because stomach enzymes interfere with insulin's action. Therefore, it must be given either through injections or an insulin pump.
Injections: You can use a fine needle and syringe or an insulin pen to inject insulin under your skin. Insulin pens look similar to ink pens, and are available in disposable or refillable varieties. Needles are available in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that's most comfortable for you.
An insulin pump: A device about the size of a cellphone worn on the outside of your body. A tube connects a reservoir of insulin to a catheter that's inserted under the skin of your abdomen. This type of pump can be worn in a variety of ways, such as on your waistband, in your pocket, or with specially designed pump belts.
Artificial pancreas: An emerging treatment approach, not yet available, is closed-loop insulin delivery, also known as the artificial pancreas. It links a continuous glucose monitor to an insulin pump. The device automatically delivers the correct amount of insulin when the monitor indicates the need for it. There are a number of different versions of the artificial pancreas, and clinical trials have had encouraging results. Studies on the device found that it could prevent low blood sugar levels overnight without significantly increasing morning blood sugar levels. More research needs to be done before a fully functional artificial pancreas can receive regulatory approval. The first step toward an artificial pancreas was approved in 2013.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/basics/treatment/con-20019573
Investigational treatments:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/basics/treatment/con-20019573