[Role of amylin in glucose homeostasis and its perspective use in diabetes management].

In response to hyperglycemia, beta-cells release insulin and C-peptide, as well as islet amyloid pancreatic polypeptide - amylin. In diabetgic patients beta-cell destruction does not only result in deficiency of insulin, but also a deficiency of C-peptide and amylin. Amylin is clearly involved in glucose homeostasis through the inhibition of gastric emptying and postprandial hepatic glucose production, eventually reducing postprandial glucose excursions. Most recently, the synthetic amylin analog pramlintide was shown to improve glycemic control in diabetic patients. Amylin replacement with pramlintide as an adjunct to insulin therapy is a novel physiological approach toward improved long-term glycemic and weight control in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.