A Protein Called Annexin A1 May Help Protect the Gut in Type 1 Diabetes

Researchers wanted to understand whether a protein called Annexin A1 plays a role in intestinal changes that occur during type 1 diabetes. They compared mice that had the protein with mice that lacked it, and gave both groups streptozotocin—a substance that triggers diabetes-like changes. They then examined the intestinal tissues to see what differences emerged.

The intestinal lining is made up of many specialized cells, including goblet cells that produce protective mucus and epithelial cells that form a barrier. In diabetic mice without Annexin A1, the researchers found thickening of the epithelial layer and reduced levels of a protein called E-cadherin, which normally helps cells stick together and maintain the barrier's integrity. Both diabetic groups—with and without the protein—showed a decline in a barrier component called ZO-1, suggesting diabetes itself affects the gut's structural integrity.

In normal immune responses, the body produces inflammatory molecules to fight threats. In this study, diabetic mice with normal Annexin A1 showed increased inflammatory mediator production. However, mice lacking Annexin A1 showed a different pattern: less of the classical inflammatory response, but increased activity of the NLRP3 inflammasome—a microscopic structure inside cells that activates a type of inflammation. This suggests Annexin A1 may help shift how the immune system responds during diabetes.

The researchers also measured epidermal growth factor (EGF), a substance that helps maintain the health and repair of the intestinal lining. EGF levels dropped only in diabetic mice that lacked Annexin A1, hinting that this protein may help preserve healing factors in the gut.

These findings add to our understanding of how the gut changes during type 1 diabetes and suggest that Annexin A1 is involved in maintaining both the physical barrier of the intestinal lining and the balance of immune responses in the gut. Since the gut microbiota and immune system interact closely in diabetes, this work may eventually inform new research directions. However, this is early-stage animal research, and much more work is needed before any potential applications for people could be explored.

Source: Tissue & cell. Evidence type: PubMed indexed literature. Type1Cure is an information and intelligence hub, not a medical advice service. This article summarizes published research and does not provide diagnosis, treatment, or personal medical guidance. Always talk to your own care team before changing anything about your Type 1 diabetes management.