[Pancreatic beta-cell neogenesis and regeneration].
OBJECTIVE
To review the literature on beta-cell neogenesis and regeneration, with special interest in substances that regulate such processes.


METHODS
Representative papers were selected through a computer MEDLINE search from 1990 to 2000.


RESULTS
Several studies showed that once islets of Langerhans developed from small pancreatic ducts, this process did not continue in normal adult individuals. However, it has been published that new beta-cell formation can occur in vivo in certain experimental models through neogenesis, in which gene pax 4 is extremely important. On the other hand, substances that stimulate the regenerative process of beta-cells include glucose, several hormones and certain growth factors.


CONCLUSIONS
Substances that stimulate the regenerative process commonly express this effect in elevated, non-physiologic concentrations; thus, their possible therapeutic importance is not yet clear. Nevertheless, the Reg protein, present in regenerative pancreas and implied in neogenesis process, has actual possibilities of becoming therapeutically important.
de Haro-Hernández
Roberto
R
Méndez
José D
JD
D000818:Animals; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D005947:Glucose / Q000494:pharmacology; D013006:Growth Hormone / Q000494:pharmacology; D006133:Growth Substances / Q000494:pharmacology; D018398:Homeodomain Proteins; D006801:Humans; D007515:Islets of Langerhans / Q000166:cytology* / Q000254:growth & development*; D037102:Lectins / Q000494:pharmacology; D051761:Paired Box Transcription Factors; D011388:Prolactin / Q000494:pharmacology; D014157:Transcription Factors
D006133:Growth Substances; D018398:Homeodomain Proteins; D037102:Lectins; C491709:PAX4 protein, human; D051761:Paired Box Transcription Factors; D014157:Transcription Factors; D011388:Prolactin; D013006:Growth Hormone; D005947:Glucose