Maf transcription factors in beta cell function
Popular Abstract in English According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), 415 million people suffer from diabetes worldwide. Diabetes occurs when the pancreatic beta cells are no longer able to produce or properly use insulin. Insulin regulates blood glucose levels by enabling glucose uptake into cells, providing the body with energy. Elevated glucose levels cause damages to highly vasDiabetes mellitus is metabolic disorder caused by a defect or lack of beta cell-produced insulin that controls blood glucose homeostasis. In addition to glucose, insulin secretion is regulated by the autonomic nervous system (ANS); the neurotransmitter acetylcholine as well as monoamines, such as dopamine, serotonin, melatonin and norepinephrine. Using a MafA mutant mouse model, we show that MafA
