Mitochondrial Protein Misfolding Linked to Beta Cell Failure in Type 2 Diabetes
A study found that in type 2 diabetes, misfolded proteins accumulate in mitochondria of pancreatic beta cells, impairing their function. The protein LONP1, responsible for clearing damaged proteins, is reduced in diabetic cells, leading to cell death. Restoring LONP1 in mice improved cell health and glucose regulation, suggesting a potential new therapeutic target for the disease.