Newly discovered gene regulates hyperglycemia-induced beta cell death in type 2 diabetes

Elevated levels of blood glucose (hyperglycemia) can induce the death of the pancreatic beta cells over time. The death of these cells (responsible for the production of insulin) underlies much of the pathology of diabetes. Exactly how and why they die is not fully understood, but a new research report sheds light on the answer and a new therapeutic target.