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The Lin28/let-7 axis regulates glucose metabolism

  • Hao Zhu
  • , Shyh Chang Ng
  • , Ayellet V. Segr
  • , Gen Shinoda
  • , Samar P. Shah
  • , William S. Einhorn
  • , Ayumu Takeuchi
  • , Jesse M. Engreitz
  • , John P. Hagan
  • , Michael G. Kharas
  • , Achia Urbach
  • , James E. Thornton
  • , Robinson Triboulet
  • , Richard I. Gregory
  • , David Altshuler
  • , George Q. Daley

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The let-7 tumor suppressor microRNAs are known for their regulation of oncogenes, while the RNA-binding proteins Lin28a/b promote malignancy by inhibiting let-7 biogenesis. We have uncovered unexpected roles for the Lin28/let-7 pathway in regulating metabolism. When overexpressed in mice, both Lin28a and LIN28B promote an insulin-sensitized state that resists high-fat-diet induced diabetes. Conversely, muscle-specific loss of Lin28a or overexpression of let-7 results in insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance. These phenomena occur, in part, through the let-7-mediated repression of multiple components of the insulin-PI3K-mTOR pathway, including IGF1R, INSR, and IRS2. In addition, the mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, abrogates Lin28a-mediated insulin sensitivity and enhanced glucose uptake. Moreover, let-7 targets are enriched for genes containing SNPs associated with type 2 diabetes and control of fasting glucose in human genome-wide association studies. These data establish the Lin28/let-7 pathway as a central regulator of mammalian glucose metabolism.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)81-94
Number of pages14
JournalCell
Volume147
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 30 Sep 2011
Externally publishedYes

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Biochemistry,Genetics and Molecular Biology

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