Diabetes remission and nonalcoholic fatty pancreas disease

Abstract

This editorial focuses on the relationship between nonalcoholic fatty pancreas disease (NAFPD) and the development and remission of type 2 diabetes (T2D). NAFPD is characterized by intrapancreatic fatty deposition associated with obesity and not associated with alcohol abuse, viral infections, and other factors. Ectopic fat deposition in the pancreas is associated with the development of T2D, and the underlying mechanism is lipotoxic β-cell dysfunction. However, the results on the relationship between intrapancreatic fat deposition (IPFD) and β-cell function are conflicting. Regardless of the therapeutic approach, weight loss improves IPFD, glycemia, and β-cell function. Pancreatic imaging is valuable for clinically monitoring and evaluating the management of T2D.

Keywords: Diabetes remission; Type 2 diabetes; Pancreatic fat content; β cell function; Weight loss

Core Tip: Excess fat in the pancreas impairs β-cell function. The remission of type 2 diabetes and the improvement of β-cell function are achieved by decreasing intrapancreatic fat deposition during weight loss.