These data indicate that the P2X7 receptor and pannexin-1 have important functions in β-cell physiology, and should be considered in understanding and treatment of diabetes.
Therefore, we hypothesize that the P2X7 receptor acts to sense changes at the leading edge following an epithelial abrasion, and this fine-tuned regulation is lost during the onset of diabetes.
Indeed, P2X7 receptors are involved in β cell function, insulin secretion, and liability to diabetes, and loss of P2X7 function may increase the risk of hepatic steatosis and disrupt adipogenesis.
In the Prevalence, Prediction, and Prevention of Diabetes in Botnia study, the minor allele in the missense functional variant rs1718119 (A348T) in P2RX7 was associated with increased insulin sensitivity and secretion, consistent with its known effect on increased pore function.