Glucagon Receptor Antagonists versus Standard Care: Beta-Cell Preservation in Early Type 1 Diabetes
Mercy Latricia
Department of Pharmacognosy Kampala International University Uganda
Email: atricia.mercy@studwc.kiu.ac.ug
ABSTRACT
Type 1 diabetes mellitus was characterized by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, leading to absolute insulin deficiency and lifelong dependence on exogenous insulin therapy. Emerging evidence suggested that glucagon signaling contributed to hyperglycemia and may exacerbate beta cell stress during early disease stages. Glucagon receptor antagonists represented a novel pharmacological approach that may complement insulin therapy by reducing hepatic glucose output and potentially preserving residual beta cell function. This review examined the therapeutic potential of glucagon receptor antagonists compared to standard insulin-based care for preserving beta cell mass and function in patients with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes. A comprehensive synthesis of preclinical studies, clinical trials, and mechanistic investigations published over the past decade was conducted to evaluate efficacy, safety, and molecular mechanisms. Glucagon receptor blockade reduced hyperglycemia through decreased hepatic gluconeogenesis and may lower beta cell workload, thereby attenuating autoimmune-mediated destruction. Clinical trials demonstrated modest improvements in C-peptide preservation and glycemic control when glucagon receptor antagonists were combined with standard insulin therapy during the honeymoon phase. However, concerns regarding hepatic steatosis, elevated aminotransferases, and alpha-cell hyperplasia limited widespread adoption. Glucagon receptor antagonists showed promise as adjunctive therapy for beta cell preservation in early type 1 diabetes, but long-term safety data and larger randomized controlled trials were needed to establish their role in clinical practice.
Keywords: Glucagon receptor antagonist, Beta cell preservation, Type 1 diabetes, C-peptide, Autoimmune diabetes.
CITE AS: Mercy Latricia (2026). Glucagon Receptor Antagonists versus Standard Care: Beta-Cell Preservation in Early Type 1 Diabetes. IAA Journal of Biological Sciences 14(1):60-64.