Living in high altitudes can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes, according to international researchers studying the effects of oxygen deprivation on human metabolism. According to scientists, residents of regions located high above sea level are approximately 12% less likely to develop the disease compared to residents of lowlands.
As BBC Science Focus reports, the key to this phenomenon lies in the change in the work of erythrocytes - red blood cells. In conditions of rarefied air, the body adapts to reduced oxygen levels, which triggers a number of biological processes that can affect blood glucose levels.
Researchers have found that at altitudes above 1,500 meters, the body begins to produce more red blood cells. At the same time, these cells change their metabolic activity and more actively use glucose as an energy source. In fact, they absorb excess sugar from the bloodstream more quickly, helping to stabilize its levels.
According to Dr. Yolanda Marti-Mateos of the Gladstone Institute, red blood cells adapted to oxygen deprivation have an increased number of glucose transporters, which allows them to more efficiently remove glucose from the blood. This mechanism is what the researchers tentatively called the “glucose sponge” effect.
Based on this discovery, the researchers developed an experimental drug called HypoxyStat, which mimics the effects of high altitude without the need for physical exposure to the mountains. In preclinical testing on laboratory mice, the drug has shown the ability to normalize glucose levels.
However, experts emphasize that it is too early to talk about the emergence of a new treatment. Ahead are long-term clinical trials with the participation of people, which should confirm the safety and effectiveness of the drug. Only after that will it be possible to assess its potential in real medical practice.
If the trial results are successful, the new approach could significantly change the strategy for fighting diabetes, making treatment less dependent on constant drug support.
