Australian scientists have discovered a potential avenue for stopping the development of diabetes.
In researching those with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) Monash University scientists came across a protein called Fetuin B. The protein has since proven to stop insulin working properly, a major cause of diabetes.
The researchers say new drugs could now be created to stop the development of the Fetuin B protein, ultimately leading to a diabetes prevention method.
Monash University scientists say the protein has only been found in those who are pre-diabetes or already have diabetes.
Lead researcher, Professor Matthew Watt, said his team in Melbourne and the Netherlands had made the discovery that shows a clear causal link to NAFLD and Type 2 diabetes.
“By developing a drug that could block this protein, it may be possible to prevent the development of diabetes in patients with fatty liver,” Professor Watt said on the Monash University website.
NAFLD exists in approximately 60 per cent of obese adults. The research has been published in the latest edition of the Cell Metabolism journal.
