Undernutrition-related diabetes in mice is linked to early undernutrition

American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism 2026 Open access

Read full text
Authors: Elvia Y. osorio, Zbigniew Gugala, Ichiaki Ito, Thomas Heathman, Sara M. Dann, Erika Cordova, Ashanti Uscanga-Palomeque, Bruno L. Travi, Peter C. Melby
DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00310.2025
Cited by: 1
References: 96

Abstract

Early-life undernutrition plays a critical role in the development of undernutrition-related diabetes. Undernourished mice exhibited a metabolic shift from the glucose metabolism toward the fatty acid metabolism, leading to bone fragility and hepatic steatosis. Paradoxically, undernutrition-related diabetes emerged after transition to a regular diet due to a persistent compromised insulin production and impaired pancreatic catch-up growth. Early-life undernutrition is a pivotal contributor to metabolic disorders and comorbidities in populations facing the double burden of malnutrition.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Birth Development and Health Genetics Aging and Longevity in Model Organisms Pancreatic function and diabetes

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism
Publisher
American Physiological Society
Volume
330
Issue
6
Pages
E813–E829
Publication date
11 May 2026
Language
EN