Elucidating a biological role for chromium at a molecular level.
Chromium is an essential trace element for mammals and is required for maintenance of proper carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. However, elucidating its function at a molecular level has proved to be problematic. Recent research has revealed that the chromium-binding oligopeptide chromodulin may play a unique role in the autoamplification of insulin signaling. Attempts to develop chromium-containing nutritional supplements and therapeutics are described.
Department of Chemistry and Coalition for Biomolecular Products, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487-0336, USA.
J B
JB
Vincent
D050260:Carbohydrate Metabolism; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000378:metabolism; D002352:Carrier Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D002857:Chromium / Q000502:physiology*; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D050356:Lipid Metabolism; D010848:Picolinic Acids / Q000378:metabolism*
D002352:Carrier Proteins; D010848:Picolinic Acids; C485789:chromodulin protein, human; C406742:chromodulin protein, mouse; D002857:Chromium; C030614:picolinic acid