Scientists from Sun Yat-sen University have found that activating the enzyme glucokinase can lower glucose levels on a high-fat diet, but also increase the risk of fatty liver. Research published in the journal Liver Research (Liver Res).
About 20% of the world’s population suffers from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and 56% of these also have type 2 diabetes. Obesity is an important risk factor for metabolic disorders, including these diseases. In both cases, the number of patients diagnosed is expected to continue to increase.
Recently, glucokinase enzyme activators have revolutionized the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Marketed drugs such as dorzagliatin have been shown to be effective in lowering blood sugar levels. A new study has shown that although they are effective in controlling sugar in type 2 diabetes, taking them can cause a buildup of fat in the liver.
Evidence suggests that more drug research is needed and could inform personalized management of chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes and NAFLD.
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