Gender-Specific Role of Enzyme in Diabetes Development Unveiled

Recent research from the University of Alabama in Huntsville highlights the significant influence of a specific enzyme, MKP-2, on the development of diabetes, with notable differences between sexes. Dr. Ahmed Lawan, an assistant professor at UAH, published a study in the journal Cells demonstrating that MKP-2 plays a gender-dependent role in glucose regulation and pancreatic islet health.

The study focused on MKP-2 knockout mice, which lack the enzyme, to better understand its function in metabolism and diabetes progression. It has been previously established that MKP-2 is involved in deactivating mitogen-activated protein kinases, crucial for controlling inflammatory responses and metabolic processes. Elevated levels of this enzyme have been linked to insulin resistance, obesity, and fatty liver disease, all risk factors for type 2 diabetes.

According to Dr. Lawan, earlier studies indicated that men are generally more predisposed to developing diabetes, whereas women tend to suffer more severe complications once diagnosed. This research aimed to explore whether MKP-2's role varies between sexes. Results revealed that female MKP-2 deficient mice experienced higher blood sugar levels, reduced pancreatic islet size, and altered cellular signaling pathways essential for insulin production.

The findings suggest that MKP-2 impacts glucose homeostasis differently in males and females, especially post-reproduction in women, such as after menopause. The enzyme's regulation appears vital for maintaining healthy pancreatic function and preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes, particularly in women.

Dr. Lawan emphasizes the importance of considering sex differences in diabetes research and treatment strategies. Most previous studies have concentrated on male subjects, overlooking potential sex-specific mechanisms. Understanding MKP-2's distinct roles could pave the way for personalized medicine approaches targeting metabolic and inflammatory pathways specific to each sex.

Overall, this research underscores the need for further preclinical and clinical investigations to determine how modulating MKP-2 activity might serve as a preventive or therapeutic measure for diabetes, considering hormonal and sex-related factors involved in disease development.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-sex-specific-role-special-enzyme.html