Link Between Skin Inflammation and Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Understanding Psoriasis
In laboratory studies, researchers have explored the connection between skin inflammation, particularly psoriasis, and an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by itchy, red, scaly patches that often appear on areas such as the elbows, knees, and scalp. This condition affects approximately 2-3% of the global population and is believed to be an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own skin cells.
Previous Findings on Diabetes Risk
Previous research has established that individuals with psoriasis face an increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. This condition arises when body cells become resistant to insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. However, the exact reasons behind the association between psoriasis and type 2 diabetes remain unclear.
Research at King’s College London
To delve deeper into the biological mechanisms linking skin inflammation to diabetes risk, researchers at King’s College London conducted studies and presented their findings at the Society for Endocrinology Conference in November 2018, held in Glasgow, Scotland.
Experimental Findings
In their experiments involving mice with psoriasis, the researchers observed biological changes indicative of insulin resistance, a significant characteristic in the onset of diabetes. The mice exhibited reduced glucose uptake in the fat tissue cells beneath the skin and increased insulin production from pancreatic islet cells, a response to compensate for insulin resistance.
Additionally, test-tube experiments revealed that culture liquids from inflamed skin samples produced similar alterations in fat and islet cells as those noted in the mouse studies. This suggests that inflamed skin might release certain factors that contribute to cellular changes associated with the development of type 2 diabetes.
Future Research Directions
The experimental models used in these studies closely mirrored the skin inflammation observed in psoriasis and showed early diabetes-like changes. The research team plans to conduct further studies aimed at identifying the skin-derived factors released during psoriasis and understanding their impact on diabetes development.
Expert Commentary
Elizabeth Evans, one of the leading researchers, stated, “If we can pinpoint novel skin-derived factors that are directly affecting blood sugar control, they may lead to potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of diabetes or insulin resistance.” The team also aims to investigate whether effective psoriasis treatment reduces the levels of inflammatory skin factors, potentially lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Reference
Press release: Skin inflammation may increase your risk of type 2 diabetes. Society for Endocrinology. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-11/sfe-sim111518.php