Methods for increasing insulin secretion by co-stimulation of corticotropin-releasing factor receptors
Methods and compositions are provided for stimulating insulin production, increasing beta cell mass, or decreasing beta cell loss in a subject. For example, methods of the embodiments can comprise administration of a corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) 1 receptor agonist and a CRF 2 receptor agonist. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising a selective CRF 1 receptor agonist and a selective CRF 2 receptor agonist.
1. A method for stimulating insulin secretion and increasing beta cell mass in a diabetic subject comprising, administering a Urocortin 1 polypeptide to the subject in an amount effective to stimulate insulin secretion and increase beta cell mass in the subject.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the subject is human.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the subject has been diagnosed with type II diabetes.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the Urocortin 1 polypeptide is formulated in a pharmaceutical composition.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the Urocortin 1 polypeptide is administered intravenously, intradermally, intraarterially, intraperitoneally, subcutaneously, or intramuscularly.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the subject has been diagnosed with type I diabetes.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the Urocortin 1 polypeptide is delivered selectively to pancreatic tissues.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the Urocortin 1 polypeptide is administered locally to pancreatic tissues.