Chinese researchers find new potential anti-diabetic drug target

Researchers from Peking University in China have identified a potential new drug target to improve the treatment of type 2 diabetes. They have focused on a microbial enzyme called Bacteroides spp. microbial dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) found in the gut microbiota. This enzyme plays a crucial role in degrading glucagon in the host’s body, which can disrupt glucose balance. The study, published in Science on August 4, revealed that the enrichment of this enzyme can reduce the effectiveness of the diabetes medication Sitagliptin. The researchers are now exploring methods to inhibit DPP4 enzyme activity, which could enhance the efficacy of existing diabetes medications and potentially lead to the development of new treatments. This discovery has significant implications for understanding diabetes and improving drug therapies for the condition.

Source : CGTN