Context-dependent actions of Exendin-4 on β-cell function and dynamic changes in islet gene expression over time in vivo

ABSTRACT: GLP-1 analogues, such as exendin-4, preserve functional β-cell mass in various model systems and are revolutionising management of type 2 diabetes. Yet, comparatively little is known about effectiveness in the face of severe β-cell depletion. Moreover, direct and sequential effects of exendin-4 on islet-specific gene expression over time in vivo are not well characterised. To address these issues and others, we have examined the time-dependent effects of exendin-4 treatment on β-cell mass regulation alongside accompanying changes in islet gene expression in vivo. Context-dependent actions were assessed by comparing effects on normal islets and also following massive toxigenetic β-cell ablation in pIns-MYCERTAM transgenic mice in vivo. Despite over 90% loss of β-cell mass, exendin-4 treatment normalised blood glucose and insulin levels in hyperglycaemic mice, though benefits rapidly waned on withdrawal of treatment. As exendin-4 did not arrest the decline in β-cell mass or turnover in this study, we could directly isolate effects on function of surviving β-cells. Improved glucose homeostasis was associated with dynamic changes in multiple islet genes and pathways in vivo favouring glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, such as Irs2, Pdx1, Sox4, glucokinase, and glycolysis pathway. Several key growth pathways and epigenetic regulators were also differentially expressed. Thus, even in the face of extensive β-cell loss exendin-4 can markedly improve hyperglycaemia by differential gene expression in surviving islet cells.

ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus

PROVIDER: GSE37936 | GEO | 2014/04/11

SECONDARY ACCESSION(S): PRJNA165653

REPOSITORIES: GEO