METHOD FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF ISLET SIGNALING IN DIABETES MELLITUS AND FOR ITS PREVENTION

摘要

The present invention discloses a method for therapeutically treating mammal s, including but not limited to humans, to increase the relative insulin producing performance of endogenous pancreatic .beta.-cells and to cause differentiation of pancreatic epithelial cells into insulin producing .beta. - cells. Oral administration of a DP IV inhibitor causes the active form of GL P- 1 to be preserved longer under physiological conditions. The extended presen ce of GLP-1, in particular in the pancreatic tissue facilitates differentiation and regeneration of the .beta.-cells already present that are in need of repair. These repaired insulin producing cells can contribute to the correction and maintenance of normal physiological glycemic levels.