Why does reducing postprandial serum stearic acid improve insulin resistance in hyperlipidemia? Looking at changes in postprandial free fatty acid profiles in subjects (mice and humans) with hyperlipidemia, researchers found that of all the fatty acids, stearic acid is only one to increase dramatically after meals. They propose a regulatory protein as the cause, and recommend it as a potential drug target for diabetes in patients who have hyperlipidemia.
RESULT: Sterol Regulatory Element–Binding Protein-1c Mediates Increase of Postprandial Stearic Acid, Potential Target for Improving Insulin Resistance, in Hyperlipidemia
Diabetes Journal | Sep 10, 2012 (Free abstract. Full text $45)
When working properly, HDL is not positively correlated with cardiovascular disease, because of its anti-atherogenic functions like cholesterol efflux and its anti-inflammatory properties. HDL doesn’t have the same effect in some patients with diabetes who have a host of comorbid conditions, among them HDL dysfunction and accelerated atherosclerosis. In this article, Israeli researchers describe the HDL changes that occur in patients with diabetes mellitus as well as suggesting treatment options.
RESULT: HDL dysfunction in diabetes: causes and possible treatments
Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy (PubMed) | March 1, 2012 (Free abstract. Full text $60)
