Alpha-Cell Sensitivity to GLP-1 in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

Glucagon-like peptide 1 is known to improve sensitivity of the pancreatic beta-cell. Further it inhibit secretion from the pancreatic alpha-cell by mechanisms not fully understand. With this study we wish to elucidate the potential of GLP-1 to increase the sensitivity of the alpha-cell. Type 2 diabetic patients and control subjects receive infusions of GLP-1 in increasing doses or saline, alpha- and beta-cell responses are measured in blood-samples. During the study plasma-glucose levels are clamped at fasting levels. With this study we hope to elucidate the pathophysiology behind defect glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetes mellitus and further more the potential of GLP-1 in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.