Insulin

ChREBP (carbohydrate response element-binding protein) is a glucose responsive basic helix-loop-helix/leucine zipper (bHLH/LZ) transcription factor that binds MLX and then carbohydrate response element /ChoRE for the induction of genes involved in glycolysis, de novo lipogenesis (DNL), and fatty acid desaturation. ChREBP’s target genes includes glucokinase (GCK), fatty acid synthase (FAS), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), pyruvate kinase/liver type pyruvate kinase (PK1/ PKLR), delta-9-desaturase (SCD/SCD1) etc.

As the hormone ghrelin is linked to appetite and weight gain, as well as impaired glucose-induced insulin secretion, there is considerable interest in this peptide as a potential drug target. Although the overall lack of success in this field has been disappointing, research inhibiting the ghrelin-modifying enzyme GOAT (MBOAT4) has produced promising results.

Adiponectin is most well-known for its role in glucose metabolism and fatty acid breakdown. Adiponectin is secreted solely by adipose tissue, and a person with a higher percentage of body fat will express lower levels of Adiponectin. When higher levels of Adiponectin are present, a mouse will show a lack of adipocyte differentiation and a measurable increase in energy expenditure.

Adiponectin is an adipocytokine protein that positively regulates metabolism of lipids and glucose by suppressing glucose production from the liver, stimulating insulin sensitivity, and increasing the rate of fatty acid oxidation and glucose uptake. Insulin resistance, obesity and dyslipidemia (abnormal blood lipid levels) are all linked to Adiponectin deficiency. The Adiponectin antibody is also used in Type 2 Diabetes research.