Development of a Biomarker for the Early Detection of Diabetes ("Pre-Diabetes") Based Upon O-GlcNAc

JHU scientists have identified markers in human blood that might readily identify individuals at the early stages of type II diabetes, when life-style changes will be most effective in disease prevention. The markers derive from hexosamine metabolism, and in particular the dynamic O-GlcNAc (modification of proteins by the sugar N-acetyl glucosamine) of proteins that causes insulin-resistance and is responsible for glucose toxicity. It appears that several O-GlcNAc modified proteins and a specific enzyme protein is strikingly up-regulated in erythrocytes of patients with diabetes, but not in normal individuals. The up-regulation of this enzyme is predictive of the "pre-diabetic" state, and is sensitive to episodes of hyperglycemia and nutrient stress. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) This invention could be developed into facile diagnostic test to readily screen and identify large numbers of people who might be at-risk for type II diabetes.

Inventor(s): Hart, Gerald W.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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