Role of microRNAs in the age-associated decline of pancreatic beta cell function in rat islets.

ABSTRACT:

Aims/hypothesis

Ageing can lead to reduced insulin sensitivity and loss of pancreatic beta cell function, predisposing individuals to the development of diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of microRNAs (miRNAs) to age-associated beta cell dysfunction.

Methods

The global mRNA and miRNA profiles of 3- and 12-month-old rat islets were collected by microarray. The functional impact of age-associated differences in miRNA expression was investigated by mimicking the observed changes in primary beta cells from young animals.

Results

Beta cells from 12-month-old rats retained normal insulin content and secretion, but failed to proliferate in response to mitotic stimuli. The islets of these animals displayed modifications at the level of several miRN

SUBMITTER: Tugay K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4670458 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature