Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes and Beta Cell Failure: An Asian Perspective

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction. Although both factors are hallmarks o evidence from recent studies has emerged showing that impaired beta cell function is always present in humans with T2DM, sugges beta cell dysfunction is a core factor in the pathogenesis of T2DM. Deficit of beta cell mass in humans with T2DM has also been r probably through an increase in beta cell apoptosis. Whether deficit of function or mass of beta cells is more important in dysfunction in T2DM remains unclear; however, collectively, functional beta cell mass is decreased in humans with T2DM. dysfunction is not only present in T2DM but also progressively worsens with duration of the disease. Recent studies have also reve the functional beta cell mass is already impaired before the onset of T2DM, implying that beta cell dysfunction is essential in the deve of T2DM. Finally, ethnic difference in beta cell function has also been proposed. Recent studies suggest that Asians have less functional capacity compared with Caucasians. Therefore, preservation or recovery of functional beta cell mass is an important the strategy to prevent, treat and even cure T2DM, and this seems to be further emphasized for Asians.