Biomarkers in response to GLP-1 analogue therapy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The development of a blood based test associated with patient response to GLP-1 therapy
IRAS ID
176900
Contact name
Paula L McClean
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Ulster University
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Diabetes is a chronic condition associated with high blood sugar levels which affects over 350 million people worldwide. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for over 90% of cases. People become diabetic because the body does not produce insulin (the hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels), or the body is not able to use insulin properly (insulin resistance). As we eat more and exercise less than ever there has been an explosive increase in the incidence of diabetes . This is because obesity is the most important risk factor in the development of type 2 diabetes, accounting for 80-85% of cases.
Diabetes may be treated by promotion of weight loss and antidiabetic drugs. It is important that patients with diabetes maintain good control of blood sugar levels, as if diabetes is not well managed they may develop secondary complications, including heart, kidney and eye disease. Good glucose control can only be achieved if patients comply with their treatment (take their medicine) and respond to the medicine that they are given, however, response varies among individuals.
GLP-1 analogues are used to treat type 2 diabetes as they improve glucose control, promote weight loss and reduce blood pressure. The purpose of this study is to measure levels of genes, proteins and metabolites (small molecules produced by metabolism in the body) in the blood of patients receiving GLP-1 analogue therapy to identify if we may predict patient response to treatment before it is started or at a much earlier stage than is currently possible (6 months). This may save substantial amounts of money in prescribing expensive medications to unresponsive patients, and will ensure that patients are not exposed to adverse side effects of a drug that has no clinical benefit, leaving them vulnerable to secondary complications associated with poor diabetes management.
REC name
HSC REC A
REC reference
16/NI/0124
Date of REC Opinion
14 Jul 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion