Role of NADPH oxidase in β cell dysfunction

Abstract

Dysfunction of pancreatic β cells and loss of β cell mass is a major factor in the development of diabetes. Currently there is no cure for diabetes, and available therapies do not focus on halting or reversing the loss of β cell function. New strategies to preserve β cells in diabetes are needed. Conferring protection to the β cells against the effects of sustained intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) presents a novel approach to preserve β cell mass. Important contributors to increases in intercellular ROS in β cells are nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase enzymes. Discussed in this review are the roles of NADPH oxidases in the β cell, their contribution to β cell dysfunction, and new emerging selective inhibitors of NADPH oxidase.