Acute Metabolic Effects of LAF 237 in Type 2 Diabetics

Incretin hormones (GIP and GLP-1) stimulate insulin release in a glucose dependant manner, hence are necessary for maintenance of normal glucose tolerance. Both GIP and GLP-1 are degraded and inactivated by DPP-4. LAF 237 is an inhibitor of DPP-4 that has been shown to increase meal-stimulated levels of intact GLP-1 in animals and patients with T2DM.. The purpose of the current study is to explore the acute effects of LAF237 on the rate of appearance and disappearance of glucose in type 2 diabetics. Secondary objectives include the effect on FPG, insulin secretion rates, glucagon and FFA levels, and rate of glucose entry from the GI tract.