Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Studies of Insulin and Glucagon Action in the Liver
Sponsor: Duke University
Summary
This study examines how glucagon works to regulate glucose metabolism, based on new findings that suggest glucagon signaling in the liver has more than one role, and that these multiple roles can be opposing in nature. Understanding this biology provides an opportunity to develop new generations of glucagon-based drugs that target specific pathways, making them more effective at controlling blood glucose. Participants will complete paired, 5-hour hyperinsulinemic glucose clamp visits in which they receive either glucagon or saline infusions while blood glucose is maintained and frequent blood samples are collected. The primary focus is whether coordinated glucagon and insulin signaling enhances hepatic insulin sensitivity.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 45 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2026-04
Completion Date
2029-12
Last Updated
2025-12-24
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Glucagon
Glucagon infusion either graded (0.2→0.4→0.6 ng/kg/min) or continuous (0.4 ng/kg/min) during the final 90 minutes of a hyperinsulinemic glucose clamp. The graded or continuous glucagon infusions are given as a component of 2 separate protocols. Glucagon prepared per pharmacy/bedside protocol.
Saline (placebo)
IV saline infusion during clamp for 90 minutes as control.
Locations (1)
Duke Center for Living
Durham, North Carolina, United States