Recent research published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine suggests that some biological processes in type 2 diabetes may act in a prion-like manner. This discovery has sparked discussion in the scientific community, as prion-like mechanisms are typically associated with neurodegenerative conditions such as “mad cow disease.” However, it’s important to clarify that these findings are preliminary and do not mean that diabetes is contagious or transmissible between people in the conventional sense.
Scientists are exploring how misfolded proteins behave in different diseases and how similar processes might occur in metabolic conditions. The potential connection between misfolded proteins and diabetes progression could transform how researchers think about prevention and treatment — but for now, this area remains a promising, early-stage hypothesis.
Type 2 diabetes at a glance
The pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that helps convert blood glucose into energy. In type 2 diabetes, the body either produces too little insulin or doesn’t respond to it properly. As a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to a range of metabolic complications over time.
Managing the condition typically involves glucose monitoring, balanced nutrition, regular activity, and medication when prescribed. Many people also use real-time digital tools such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) to track changes in blood sugar levels throughout the day. These devices have become an essential part of modern diabetes care, improving precision and helping patients respond to fluctuations faster.
What the new studies explored
Researchers from the University of Houston and several collaborating institutions examined how specific proteins behave in the pancreas. They discovered that up to 80% of individuals with type 2 diabetes show an accumulation of misfolded islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) within their pancreatic tissue. Under certain conditions, misfolded IAPP proteins can trigger other nearby proteins to misfold — a chain reaction that mirrors what scientists have observed in prion-related disorders such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy and Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease.
In laboratory experiments, scientists injected misfolded IAPP into the pancreases of healthy mice. Within a few weeks, the mice began showing elevated blood glucose levels and loss of insulin-producing beta cells. This finding suggests that prion-like behavior might accelerate disease development, though it does not mean diabetes can spread from one person to another.
How this differs from classic prion disease
Classic prion diseases are rare, rapidly progressive, and typically affect the brain or nervous system. By contrast, type 2 diabetes is a common, chronic metabolic disorder influenced by multiple genetic and lifestyle factors. The similarity lies in how proteins misfold, but the diseases themselves occur in completely different systems of the body.
- Context: Prion diseases such as Creutzfeldt–Jakob are neurodegenerative and fatal, whereas type 2 diabetes develops gradually and can be managed effectively with lifestyle and medication.
- Mechanism: Both conditions involve abnormal protein folding. In diabetes, the affected protein is pancreatic IAPP, while in prion diseases it’s the prion protein (PrP) in neural tissue.
- Implication: Observing similar misfolding behavior in lab models may lead to deeper biological insights — but it doesn’t mean that diabetes is infectious or behaves like classic prion disease in real life.
What it could mean for future diabetes care
If confirmed, this research could help scientists identify new therapeutic targets and prevention strategies. For instance, medicines that block or reverse IAPP misfolding might protect pancreatic beta cells from damage. Early screening for individuals at higher risk of IAPP buildup could also guide more proactive interventions in the future.
- New drug targets: Researchers are investigating compounds that stabilize normal protein structure and prevent aggregation.
- Earlier intervention: Detecting misfolded IAPP early may enable healthcare providers to slow disease progression before major insulin resistance develops.
- Improved monitoring: Using digital health tools like CGM helps patients and doctors track daily glucose trends and evaluate how treatments are working.
These insights could eventually change how diabetes medications are designed — shifting focus from managing symptoms to addressing the underlying molecular processes that drive the condition.
Staying practical: what patients can do now
While research continues, people living with diabetes can take simple, proven steps to maintain control and prevent complications. Accessing the right tools and support is key to staying on track.
- Verify insurance coverage: If your CGM or medication requires approval, our team can assist with Prior Authorization Assistance and Benefits Investigation & Verification.
- Lower out-of-pocket costs: Explore patient savings programs and manufacturer discounts through Medication Access & Cost Management.
- Leverage technology: Discuss your CGM data with your healthcare team. Understanding how diet, exercise, and sleep influence glucose patterns can help personalize your treatment plan.
- Stay informed: Medical knowledge evolves quickly. Regularly reviewing credible updates with your care provider ensures you’re benefiting from the latest advances.
Need help navigating coverage for diabetes medications, CGM devices, or other supplies? Visit QuickFill RX or call 818-457-4011 for personal assistance from our pharmacy support team.