Replenishing the insulin-producing β-cell mass is considered to be a potential cure for diabetes. A recent study identified a secreted protein, known as betatrophin, which potently induces pancreatic β-cell proliferation. Notably, a number of studies reportedly identified betatrophin, which is also known as lipasin, atypical angiopoietin-like 8 and refeeding-induced fat and liver protein, and considered to be a novel regulator in lipid metabolism according to the studies. The identification of betatrophin was considered to create novel opportunities for potential diabetes therapy. In the present study, the current knowledge of betatrophin is reviewed, with regards to its character and function in lipid homeostasis and pancreatic β-cell proliferation.
Keywords: betatrophin; diabetes; insulin resistance; β cell.