Free Radical Research publishes a forum issue on protein post-translational modifications in cell signalling and disease

Free Radical Research is pleased to announce the publication of a forum issue on protein post-translational modifications in cell signalling and disease.

This issue, guest edited by Francesco Galli and Enrique Cadenas, looks at the role of such modifications in apoptotic signalling and redox sensing, as well as their impact on mitochondrial proteins and functions. Connections between the latter and neurodegenerative diseases, in particular through increased oxidative stress, are discussed. The issue also points to links between protein modifications such as glycation, nitration or succination and metabolic disorders.

For more details, you can download the opening editorial for free and view the table of content page.

Free Radical Research is the official journal of the European and Asian branches of the Society for Free Radical Research. Discounted individual subscriptions are available to the members of these societies.

GPR119 agonists for the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is the most common form of diabetes, already affecting millions of people worldwide, with cases expected to rise significantly in the future. Given some of the unpleasant and sometimes dangerous side effects of current anti-diabetic therapies, which include hypoglycaemia, gastrointestinal problems, weight gain and edema, there is ongoing research to find more promising targets that can effectively reduce blood glucose. One target that has gained considerable interest is GPR119, a G-protein coupled receptor. Agonists of this receptor have been shown to increase both glucose –dependent insulin release and incretin release (which, in turn, causes insulin release). Jones and colleagues review currently known chemical GPR119 agonists focusing on the chemical structure of the compounds and discuss their effects in animal models of diabetes and early clinical trials. The authors claim GPR119 agonists could be used effectively with DPP-IV inhibitors to control glucose levels if their actions can be repeated in human clinical trials.