Researchers have discovered that a gut microbiome-derived metabolite called 10-hydroxy-cis-12-octadecenoic acid (HYA) can significantly reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes in type 1 diabetes, according to a new study published in Acta Diabetologica. The research, conducted by scientists from Wakayama Medical University, Hokkaido University, and Noster Inc., demonstrates HYA's potential as a complementary approach to traditional insulin therapy.
Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) patients face ongoing challenges with postprandial hyperglycemia—dangerous blood sugar spikes after meals—despite insulin treatment. These glucose fluctuations contribute to long-term complications including cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and vision impairment.
Multi-Mechanism Approach to Blood Sugar Control
The study examined HYA's effects on blood glucose regulation in both normal and T1DM model rats. HYA is produced when gut bacteria metabolize linoleic acid, a common dietary fat. Unlike linoleic acid itself, which can trigger inflammatory responses, HYA activates beneficial metabolic pathways without inflammation.
Lead author Yuta Yamamoto and colleagues found that oral administration of HYA before a glucose tolerance test produced several beneficial effects:
"Our study suggests that HYA could be a beneficial dietary supplement for controlling postprandial blood sugar levels, particularly in type 1 diabetes patients using insulin therapy," explains Yamamoto.
The researchers identified three primary mechanisms behind HYA's glucose-regulating effects:
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Enhanced Gut Hormone Secretion: HYA increased levels of GLP-1 and cholecystokinin (CCK), hormones that improve glucose metabolism by slowing gastric emptying.
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Inhibited Glucose Absorption: The compound partially blocked glucose uptake by inhibiting the sodium-glucose transporter (SGLT1), preventing sharp increases in blood sugar.
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Complementary Action with Insulin: When combined with bolus insulin treatment in T1DM model rats, HYA provided additional improvements in postprandial glucose control.
Leveraging the Gut Microbiome for Metabolic Health
This research highlights the growing importance of gut microbiome-derived compounds in managing metabolic conditions. HYA works through G protein-coupled receptor 120 (GPR120), promoting beneficial gut hormone secretion without the inflammatory drawbacks of its precursor, linoleic acid.
"What makes HYA particularly interesting is its multi-targeted approach," notes a researcher involved in the study. "Rather than focusing solely on insulin secretion like many traditional treatments, HYA addresses several aspects of glucose metabolism simultaneously."
The compound's ability to slow gastric motility, enhance gut hormone secretion, and inhibit glucose absorption represents a comprehensive approach to managing postprandial hyperglycemia.
Future Therapeutic Potential
While the current research was conducted in rat models, the findings suggest HYA could eventually serve as a dietary supplement for humans with type 1 diabetes. The compound's natural origin and lack of inflammatory effects make it a promising candidate for further clinical investigation.
Noster Inc., one of the organizations behind the research, continues to explore the therapeutic potential of gut microbiome-derived metabolites. The company focuses on developing biopharmaceuticals and functional foods based on microbiome research.
As interest in microbiome-based therapies continues to grow, HYA represents an exciting avenue for future research and potential therapeutic development in diabetes management. The compound's ability to work synergistically with insulin therapy could offer new options for the millions of people worldwide struggling with type 1 diabetes and postprandial glucose control.
