Sweet new discovery will rewrite medical texts, say researchers
A new study reveals how a common protein is involved in regulating sugar stored in the body
Researchers from the School of Biomedical Sciences’ Department of Anatomy and Physiology have collaborated with lead authors from WEHI to reveal a mechanism our bodies use to regulate sugar – rewriting the fundamental rules of biology. The discovery could help people living with conditions caused by excessive sugar levels, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Published in Nature, the study is the first to uncover a potential therapeutic process that could be used to directly reduce the amount of sugar stored in the body. The study’s authors – including Professor Paul Gregorevic and Dr Craig Goodman (DAP) – shared their “game-changing discovery” with The Age/Sydney Morning Herald.
The team used peptides in a method called NoPro-clipping to show a critical protein called ubiquitin can regulate sugar stored in the body. The discovery overturns 50 years of scientific knowledge, said the researchers.
“As a scientist, one dreams of playing a part in discoveries like these,” said Professor Gregorevic. “The Komander team’s development of NoPro-clipping has changed the way we think about the biological significance of ubiquitin, and we can’t wait to learn more as we take this exciting collaboration further.”
WEHI’s Professor David Komander, co-lead author on the study, said the team’s research added a new chapter to a book that had previously been considered complete.
“Exciting new drugs – such as Ozempic – are transforming how we manage blood sugar, indirectly via hormonal regulation,” Professor Komander said. “We’ve found a way to go straight to the source.”
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