Endocrinology. 2014 Dec 8:en20141637. [Epub ahead of print]

Periostin Induces Pancreatic Regeneration.

Smid JK¹, Faulkes S, Rudnicki MA.

Abstract

We found that the secreted protein Periostin (Postn) is highly induced following partial pancreatectomy in regenerating areas containing mesenchymal stroma and tubular complexes. Importantly, following partial pancreatectomy Postn-deficient mice exhibit impaired mesenchymal formation and reduced regeneration specifically within the pancreatic β-cell compartment. Furthermore, Postn-deficient mice demonstrate an increased sensitivity to streptozotocin. Notably, injection of Postn directly into the pancreas stimulated proliferation of Vimentin expressing cells within 24 hours and by three days a mesenchymal stroma was present containing proliferating duct-like cells expressing the progenitor markers Ngn3 and Pdx1. Intraperitoneal injection of Postn resulted in increased numbers of islets and long-term glucoregulatory benefits with no adverse effects found in other tissues. Delivery of Postn throughout the pancreas via the common bile duct resulted in increased numbers of small insulin-expressing clusters and a significant improvement in glucose tolerance. Therefore, Postn is novel molecule capable of potentiating pancreatic β-cell regeneration.