Abstract: The present invention provides a method of stimulating growth of a pancreatic islet beta cell and/or enhancing glucose stimulated insulin secretion of a pancreatic islet beta cell, comprising delivering to the cell an exogenous nucleotide sequence encoding Nkx6.1 transcription factor.

Abstract: Provided are methods and reagents for reducing ketone levels (for example, ?-hydroxybutyrate) in skeletal muscle. Also provided are methods and reagents for treating insulin resistant states, such as diabetes. Further provided are screening methods for identifying compounds to reduce skeletal muscle ketone levels and/or to treat insulin resistance, for example, insulin resistance associated with diabetes.

Abstract: The present invention provides cells comprising an isolated nucleic acid encoding a novel lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and/or the encoded LDH polypeptide. The invention further provides cells comprising an isolated nucleic acid encoding LDH, wherein the cell is capable of producing and secreting insulin. Also provided are methods of providing fuel-stimulated (e.g., glucose-stimulated) insulin secreting capability to a mammalian subject by implanting cells of the invention (e.g., in a semi-permeable membrane and/or an implantable device) into the subject. Further provided are devices comprising the cells of the invention. In particular embodiments, the device is an implantable device.

Abstract: The present invention provides an isolated nucleic acid encoding a novel lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as well as the isolated LDH polypeptide. Also provided are methods of enhancing fuel-stimulated insulin secretion, in particular, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Further provided are methods of screening for compounds that bind LDH, modulate LDH activity, and/or modulate fuel- or glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and the compounds identified thereby. The invention further provides a method of enhancing insulin secretion by administering a nucleic acid encoding LDH to a subject in a therapeutically effective amount.