Human Islet Amyloid Polypeptide (IAPP) Peptide

Background

Islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), also known as amylin, is a 37-residue peptide hormone produced by the pancreatic beta cells. IAPP plays a role in regulating glucose metabolism, primarily by slowing gastric emptying and reducing glucagon secretion. in conditions such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, IAPP can misfold and aggregate, forming amyloid fibrils. These amyloid fibrils can accumulate in the pancreas, particularly in the islets of Langerhans. This aggregation of amyloid fibrils is associated with beta cell dysfunction, apoptosis , and progression of type 2 diabetes. Amyloid deposits originating from islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), are frequently observed in the pancreatic islets of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus or those afflicted with insulinoma cancer. Although the connection between amylin and the onset of type 2 diabetes has been recognized for some time, pinpointing its direct causative role has proved challenging. Some research indicates that amylin, and beta-amyloid (Abeta) linked to Alzheimer's disease, could trigger apoptotic cell death in insulin-producing beta cells. This effect may have implications for the progression of type 2 diabetes.