Cell Stem Cell 24, 1–10 (2019)

Modeling the responses to the insulin-resistance-reversing thiazolidinedione (TZD) drugs in human adipose stem cell (hASC)-derived adipocytes identifies genetic variants that explain patient responses.

TZD drugs are able to reverse insulin resistance, preventing development of type 2 diabetes. However, side effects and variable responses to these drugs inhibit their widespread use.

Scientists from the United States and China derived adipocytes from the adipose stem cells of five obese patients. TZD drugs function by modifying the action of the transcription factor peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ), and they were able to identify genetic variants that modified the effect of TZD drugs on this protein and hence its effectiveness.

Screening for these variants in the future could tailor therapies.