Exendin-4 Promotes Beta Cell Proliferation via PI3k/Akt Signalling Pathway.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Prevention of diabetes requires maintenance of a functional beta-cell mass, the postnatal growth of which depends on beta cell proliferation. Past studies have shown evidence of an effect of an incretin analogue, Exendin-4, in promoting beta cell proliferation, whereas the underlying molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. METHODS: Here we studied the effects of Exendin-4 on beta cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo through analysing BrdU-incorporated beta cells. We also analysed the effects of Exendin-4 on beta cell mass in vivo, and on beta cell number in vitro. Then, we applied specific inhibitors of different signalling pathways and analysed their effects on Exendin-4-induced beta cell proliferation. RESULTS: Exendin-4 increased beta cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo, resulting in significant increases in beta cell mass and beta cell number, respectively. Inhibition of PI3K/Akt signalling, but not inhibition of either ERK/MAPK pathway, or JNK pathway, significantly abolished the effects of Exendin-4 in promoting beta cell proliferation. CONCLUSION: Exendin-4 promotes beta cell proliferation via PI3k/Akt signaling pathway.