G Protein-Coupled Receptors and the Rise of Type 2 Diabetes in Children

The human genome counts hundreds of GPCRs specialized to sense thousands of different extracellular cues, including light, odorants and nutrients in addition to hormones. Primordial GPCRs were likely glucose transporters that became sensors to monitor the abundance of nutrients and direct the cell to switch from aerobic metabolism to fermentation. Human beta cells express multiple GPCRs that contribute to regulate glucose homeostasis, cooperating with many others expressed by a variety of cell types and tissues. These GPCRs are intensely studied as pharmacological targets to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. The dramatic rise of type 2 diabetes incidence in pediatric age is likely correlated to the rapidly evolving lifestyle of children and adolescents of the new century. Current pharmacological treatments are based on therapies designed for adults, while youth and puberty are characterized by a different hormonal balance related to glucose metabolism. This review focuses on GPCRs functional traits that are relevant for beta cells function, with an emphasis on aspects that could help to differentiate new treatments specifically addressed to young type 2 diabetes patients.

Automated summary

The human genome contains multiple GPCRs specialized in sensing various extracellular cues, including light, odorants, nutrients, and hormones. These GPCRs play a crucial role in regulating glucose homeostasis, especially for beta cells. The rise of type 2 diabetes in pediatric age may be due to changes in lifestyle and hormonal balance, highlighting the need for tailored treatments for young patients.