Clinical research progress on β-cell dysfunction in T2DM development in the Chinese population

The prevalence of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has increased over 10-fold in the past 40 years in China, which now has the largest T2DM population in the world. Insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction are the typical features of T2DM. Although both factors play a role, decreased beta-cell function and beta-cell mass are the predominant factors for progression to T2DM. Considering the differences between Chinese T2DM patients and those of other ethnicities, it is important to characterize beta-cell dysfunction in Chinese patients during T2DM progression. Herein, we reviewed the studies on the relationships between beta-cell function and T2DM progression in the Chinese population and discussed the differences among individuals of varying ethnicities. Meanwhile, we summarized the risk factors and current treatments of T2DM in Chinese individuals and discussed their impacts on beta-cell function with the hope of identifying a better T2DM therapy.Graphic abstractDiagram of beta-cell dysfunction in different ethnic subjects during T2DM and the risk factors and medications for beta-cell function regulation in Chinese patients