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Regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism by the pancreatic and extra-pancreatic actions of taurine

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Abstract

The beneficial actions of l-taurine (Tau) against glucose intolerance, obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and non-alcoholic fat liver disease (NAFLD) have been linked to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which ameliorate tissue insulin sensitivity. Importantly, there are several lines of evidence that indicate a direct action of Tau on the endocrine pancreas to regulate the secretion and paracrine actions of insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. Furthermore, Tau can also ameliorate glucose metabolism through the enhancement of insulin signaling. However, some of the benefits of Tau upon intermediary metabolism may manifest via considerable antagonism of the action of insulin. Therefore, this review discusses the mechanisms of action by which Tau may regulate endocrine pancreatic morphofunction, and glucose and lipid homeostasis.

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Acknowledgements

We are grateful to Nicola Conran for English edition.

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All contributing authors wrote the review and approved the final version.

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Correspondence to Rosane A. Ribeiro.

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All contributing authors report that there are no conflicts of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported.

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This article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.

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Handling Editor: J. D. Wade.

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Ribeiro, R.A., Bonfleur, M.L., Batista, T.M. et al. Regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism by the pancreatic and extra-pancreatic actions of taurine. Amino Acids 50, 1511–1524 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-018-2650-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-018-2650-3

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