Type 2 diabetes: Pharmacological intervention in an animal model

Abstract

The results of our pharmaceutical interventions are summarized in Table 1. A striking aspect of the responses obtained in the JCR:LA-cp rat is that end-stage vascular and myocardial disease responds to a range of different interventions. Reduction of the insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia by MEDICA 16, D-fenfluramine, or even by intensive physical activity54 clearly addresses the core dysfunction of the cp/cp rat and inhibits the whole pathophysiological process. However, the prevention of vasospasm or reduction of ischemic injury by captopril or probucol is effective in preventing advanced damage to both the pancreas and the heart. These findings are encouraging, suggesting that a variety of approaches may well be effective in preventing the consequences of insulin resistance in humans. We may find that a combination of treatments may provide enhanced protection for susceptible individuals.