Scientists have Proven a Connection between Obesity and Diabetes

A university study that was conducted in Australia has found out that a proven connection between obesity and the onset of diabetes type 2. Because of these findings, new drugs can be developed in order to prevent the occurrence of the disease.

The team of researchers were led by Associate Professor Matthew Watt at the Monash University. The results of their study were published on the journal entitled, Cell Metabolism for the month of July.

The researchers have found out that fat cells are releasing a novel protein called pigment epithelium-derived factor or PEDF. This protein would activate a series of events leading to the onset of diabetes type 2.

According to the researchers, once PEDF was released by the fat cells, it enters the bloodstream. PEDF causes the muscles and the liver to become desensitized to insulin causing the pancreas to produce more insulin as a compensatory mechanism.

Because of the attempt of the pancreas to compensate, the workload of the pancreas is increased. Eventually, the pancreas will slow down or stop producing insulin which results to type 2 diabetes.

Based from the researchers’ observation, the more fat cells a person has, the more the body becomes less sensitive to insulin; thus, more amount of insulin is needed in order to maintain regular levels of blood glucose.

The researchers also claimed that aside from discovering the effects of PEDF to the development of type 2 diabetes, preventing its release can also help in preventing the development of diabetes.

Long before, scientists are suspecting a strong connection between obesity and diabetes. With the discovery of PEDF, this could be a big breakthrough on how to prevent type 2 diabetes. The results of this study will also benefit patients with type 2 diabetes. Weight loss should be stressed to obese people in order to prevent the development of such diseases.