MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that regulate
gene expression and which play important roles in many
cell types, including as described herein, the pancreatic β-
cell.
Glucagon like
peptide-1 (GLP-1), a
hormone released from intestinal L-cells following
meal intake, exerts pleiotropic effects on β-
cell function including raising
intracellular cAMP levels and now represents an important therapy for type 2 diabetes. Expression of miR-132 and miR212 is upregulated by
CREB protein in response increased cAMP levels in the cell; therefore, methods for detecting and evaluating β-cell engagement by GLP-1
receptor agonists by monitoring miR-132 and miR-212 expression in a subject is described. The methods herein are particularly useful in the context of longitudinal clinical trials, such as those designed for testing the durability of any single or
combination therapy in type 2 diabetes populations. Because the expression of these miRNAs is not affected by glucose,
fatty acid,
insulin, or β-
cell function, monitoring miR-132 and miR-212 expression can be used to monitor the
efficacy of any agent that effects an increase cAMP in β-cells. Such agents include for example, GLP-1,
glucagon, GPR-119, and
GIP receptor agonists;
dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) inhibitors; and
phosphodiesterase inhibitors.