Metformin action on AMP-activated protein kinase: a translational research approach to understanding a potential new therapeutic target

Boyle, J.G., Salt, I.P. and McKay, G.A. (2010) Metformin action on AMP-activated protein kinase: a translational research approach to understanding a potential new therapeutic target. Diabetic Medicine, 27(10), pp. 1097-1106. (doi: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2010.03098.x) (PMID:20854376)

Abstract

Clinical studies in Type 2 diabetes mellitus have shown that the effects of metformin go beyond improving HbA1c and include reductions in cardiovascular endpoints. Metformin therapy has been widely used in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes for many years, yet the precise mode of action remains uncertain. It has recently been proposed that metformin-mediated stimulation of hepatic AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) underlies the hypoglycaemic effects of metformin. AMPK is a heterotrimeric enzyme that is expressed in many tissues and plays a central role in the regulation of energy homoeostasis. Furthermore, there is increasing evidence that AMPK is implicated in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The generation of more specific and potent activators of AMPK, however, could have additional metabolic and vascular benefits for patients with Type 2 diabetes.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Boyle, Dr James and Salt, Dr Ian and McKay, Dr Gerard
• Authors: Boyle, J.G., Salt, I.P., and McKay, G.A.
• Subjects: R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Molecular Biosciences
• Journal Name: Diabetic Medicine
• ISSN: 0742-3071
• Published Online: 21 July 2010