Methyl Mercury, Adipokines, 3T3-L1 Cells and Diabetes

Diabetes is a contributor to morbidity across the globe and is often associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. In addition to genetic and lifestyle factors, environmental factors such as metals and persistent organic pollutants may increase the severity or lower the threshold of these conditions. Studies are showing an association between these contaminants and both insulin sensitivity and glucose transport. In cell culture, mercury and methyl mercury are toxic to adipocytes and impact the secretion of cytokines and adipokines. We propose a research model using contaminants like methyl mercury on adipocytes to enhance the existing knowledge on the mechanistic influence of adipokines and reactive oxygen species on 3T3-L1 cell functioning. With this enhanced signaling model, anti-inflammatory agents could be tested at the biochemical level and lead to studies in animal models. Prospective model studies on mixtures of contaminants can contribute to better understanding about the development or severity of diabetes.