Gut-brain mechanisms controlling glucose homeostasis

Our current understanding of glucose homeostasis is centered on glucose-induced secretion of insulin from pancreatic islets and insulin action on glucose metabolism in peripheral tissues. In addition, however, recent evidence suggests that neurocircuits located within a brain-centered glucoregulatory system work cooperatively with pancreatic islets to promote glucose homeostasis. Among key observations is evidence that, in addition to insulin-dependent mechanisms, the brain has the capacity to potently lower blood glucose levels via mechanisms that are insulin-independent, some of which are activated by signals emanating from the gastrointestinal tract. This review highlights evidence supporting a key role for a “gut-brain-liver axis” in control of glucose homeostasis by the brain-centered glucoregulatory system and the implications of this regulatory system for diabetes pathogenesis and treatment.