Could a natural protein help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes?

NCT ID NCT02724566

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early study tested whether a protein called apelin can improve how the body uses insulin in people with type 2 diabetes. Nine volunteers received both apelin and a placebo infusion to compare effects. The goal was to see if apelin increases the amount of sugar the body can process, which could lead to better blood sugar control.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

apelin (a synthetic version of a natural protein, given as an infusion)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new way to improve insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-phase trial with only 9 participants. It is designed to test safety and basic effects, not to prove a treatment works.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for DIABETES are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

diabetes mellitus type 2 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University Hospitals of Toulouse (Rangueil)

    Toulouse, Midi-Pyrénées, 31059, France