Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase enhances beta cell expansion during pregnancy

J. Feng, H.-Y. Li, X.-L. Wang, Y. Huo, S.-X. Liu, L. Li

Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Hebei People’s Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China. fj878742@126.com

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• Pharmacology

OBJECTIVE: Many factors contribute to the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Among these factors, nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) plays a critical role. Previous studies have demonstrated the effects of NAMPT on insulin resistance during GDM, while the effects of NAMPT on beta cells remain unknown. Here we addressed this question.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Mouse islets were isolated and transduced with adeno-associated vectors carrying NAMPT. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, beta cell proliferation, and beta cell apoptosis were analyzed in NAMPT-overexpressing islets, compared to controls.

RESULTS: Overexpression of NAMPT in primary mouse islets increased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and increased beta cell expansion through augmentation of beta cell proliferation, without affecting beta cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS: NAMPT enhances expansion of beta cell mass during pregnancy. Inadequate NAMPT may contribute to the development of GDM partially through reduced beta cell expansion in the gestational period.

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