Use of stable isotope-labeled fatty acids to measure desaturase activities with negative chemical ionization GC-MS.

Fatty acid desaturases are key enzymes in lipid metabolism. They introduce double bonds between defined carbons of the fatty acyl chain and catalyze rate-limiting steps in the biosynthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids. For decades, in vitro desaturase activities have been determined by using radiolabeled fatty acids as substrates, incubated with tissue or cell fractions containing membrane-bound desaturases.

Determination of drug-related problems among type 2 diabetes outpatients in a hospital in Vietnam: A cross-sectional study.

Introduction: Drug-related problems (DRPs) are common in clinical practice and occur at all stages of the medication process. The major factor contributing to DRPs is prescription, although patients' poor adherence to treatment is also a significant factor. This study evaluated type 2 diabetes outpatients in a hospital in Vietnam for drug-related problems (DRPs) and related variables.

AMPK inhibits liver gluconeogenesis: fact or fiction?

Is there a role for AMPK in the control of hepatic gluconeogenesis and could targeting AMPK in liver be a viable strategy for treating type 2 diabetes? These are frequently asked questions this review tries to answer. After describing properties of AMPK and different small-molecule AMPK activators, we briefly review the various mechanisms for controlling hepatic glucose production, mainly via gluconeogenesis. The different experimental and genetic models that have been used to draw conclusions about the role of AMPK in the control of liver gluconeogenesis are critically discussed.