Purpose
Understanding factors that influence blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is crucial for managing hyperglycemia. Currently, there is no standardized interpretation method for glucagon levels in oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). This study aims to assess the relationship between the lowest glucagon/highest C-peptide ratio (Lglc/Hcp) in OGTT and glucose control levels in T2DM.
Patients and Methods
Clinical data from 120 patients with T2DM were examined to compare the correlations of Lglc/Hcp and other pancreatic islet function-associated indices with fasting blood glucose (G0), glucose at 120 minutes in OGTT (G120), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and the area under the glucose curve in OGTT (AUCglu). Additionally, the study investigated difference in Lglc/Hcp between patient groups based on the highest blood glucose levels (Hglu) in OGTT (Hglu ≥ 16.7 mmol/L vs Hglu < 16.7 mmol/L).
Results
The generalized linear model suggested that Lglc/Hcp significantly correlated with G0 (B = 0.85, P < 0.001), G120(B = 1.46, P < 0.001), HbA1c (B = 0.67, P < 0.001), and AUCglu (B = 3.46, P < 0.001). This correlation surpassed C-peptide and glucagon-related parameters, even after adjusting for confounding factors. Furthermore, Lglc/Hcp was notably higher in patients with Hglu ≥ 16.7 mmol/L compared to those with Hglu < 16.7 mmol/L (Z = −3.71, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Lglc/Hcp in OGTT closely relates to blood glucose control in patients with T2DM, potentially reflecting the overall pancreatic islet function in regulating glucose levels. Moreover, inhibiting glucagon secretion may be a crucial consideration for patients requiring insulin treatment.