In a study published in the journal Cell Metabolism, researchers from the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine identified a key player that helps prevent "insulin shock." The researchers noted that this finding can help in the development of therapeutic alternatives to the hormone used by millions of people with diabetes.

Although insulin is one of the most important hormones, its deficiency can lead to death, and too much insulin can also be fatal. The researchers explained that patients who are treated with insulin or drugs that stimulate insulin secretion often experience hypoglycemia, which if left unrecognized and untreated can result in seizures, coma, and even death. This collectively defines a condition called insulin shock.

The lead author of the study described the findings as the bodys natural defense or safety valve that reduces the risk of insulin shock. The valve described in the study is a metabolic enzyme known as fructose-1,6-bisphosphate phosphatase, or FBP1, that controls the process of gluconeogenesis. It also inhibited the activity of the protein kinase AKT, which is the principal conduit of insulin action. Several anti-diabetic drugs, such as metformin, inhibit gluconeogenesis.

Additionally, several studies have shown that when the body is starved for glucose or carbohydrates, an FBP1 deficiency can result in severe hypoglycemia. Therefore, to understand the role of FBP1, researchers developed a test model with a liver-specific FBP1 deficiency.

The findings of the study showed that the test model appeared normal and healthy until fasting. In fasting conditions, the test model showed symptoms of severe hypoglycemia, liver abnormalities, and hyperlipidemia. 

(Source: https://www.punjabnewsexpress.com/health/news/researchers-identify-key-player-that-helps-prevent-insulin-shock-206739 )