11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 inhibitors for the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Importance of the field: The prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes is rising and reaching pandemic proportions. For this reason, identification of novel therapeutic targets is urgently needed. Areas covered in this review: The endoluminal enzyme 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11 beta-HSD1) catalyzes glucocorticoid activation in key metabolic tissues including skeletal muscle, liver and adipose tissue, and is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity, type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. Selective 11 beta-HSD1 inhibitors limit local glucocorticoid availability and improve insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, lipid profiles and atherosclerosis. To date, there is a paucity of clinical studies using selective 11 beta-HSD1 inhibitors; however, early indications show that these compounds have great therapeutic potential. What the reader will gain: We present a comprehensive overview of the background to the development of selective 11 beta-HSD1 inhibitors, the preclinical data supporting 11 beta-HSD1 as a therapeutic target, and the current status of clinical trials of these agents. Take home message: Selective 11 beta-HSD1 inhibitors have the potential to improve insulin sensitivity and may ultimately add to the treatment options available for patients with type 2 diabetes. However, further clinical studies are urgently required.