C-PEPTIDE REVISITED - NEW PHYSIOLOGICAL-EFFECTS AND THERAPEUTIC IMPLICATIONS

Recent studies have demonstrated that replacement of C-peptide to norm al physiological concentrations in insulin-dependent diabetic (IDDM) p atients on a short-term basis (1-3 h) results in decreased glomerular hyperfiltration, augmented glucose utilization and improved autonomic nervous function. More prolonged administration (1-3 months) of C-pept ide to IDDM patients is accompanied by improvements in both renal and autonomic nervous function. Moreover, both in-vitro and in-vivo studie s indicate that C-peptide may have a role in the regulation of insulin secretion. The effects of C-peptide may in part be explained by its a bility to stimulate Nai,Kc-ATPase activity. In conclusion, the combine d findings indicate that C-peptide is a biologically active hormone. T he possibility that C-peptide therapy in IDDM patients may be benefici al should be considered.