GLDC: A Rare Form of High Blood Sugar (G2731)

Target Name: GLDC

NCBI ID: G2731

GLDC: A Rare Form of High Blood Sugar

GLDC (nonketotic hyperglycinemia), also known as non-ketotic hyperglycemia, is a rare form of high blood sugar that affects approximately 10 million people worldwide. Unlike other forms of hyperglycemia, such as type 1 diabetes, GLDC is not caused by an insulin deficiency or an underlying disease. Instead, it is characterized by an insatiable hunger for sugar and an inability to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to high levels of sugar in the body.

The hallmark symptom of GLDC is an intense, uncontrollable urge to consume sugar, often accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and a rapid heartbeat. These symptoms are often mistaken for those of a type 2 diabetes, but a simple blood sugar test can reveal otherwise. GLDC is also associated with an increased risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and vision loss, making it a serious and life-threatening condition.

The exact cause of GLDC is not known, but it is thought to involve an abnormal sensitivity to insulin. This sensitivity can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, obesity, and an underlying medical condition such as hypothyroidism. The symptoms of GLDC are often unpredictable and can vary from person to person. Some people may experience few symptoms, while others may experience a range of symptoms from mild to severe.

GLDC can be diagnosed through a blood test that measures the levels of glucose in the blood. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the body's ability to produce insulin, GLDC is not caused by an autoimmune response. Instead, it is thought to be caused by an underlying sensitivity to insulin.

In some cases, GLDC can be treated with lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity or losing weight. In other cases, it may be necessary to take medication, such as metformin, which is a common treatment for type 2 diabetes. However, the treatment of GLDC is often limited to managing symptoms and improving quality of life, rather than preventing complications.

GLDC is a difficult condition to diagnose, and many people are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. This is because the symptoms of GLDC often overlap with those of other conditions, making it difficult to recognize the underlying cause. In addition, GLDC is often mistaken for a type 2 diabetes, which can lead to unnecessary treatment and a lack of effective management of symptoms.

Unfortunately, the lack of effective treatment options for GLDC means that it remains a serious and life-threatening condition. While there is currently no cure for GLDC, there are steps that can be taken to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms of GLDC, it is important to speak with your doctor and explore your treatment options. With proper management, it is possible to slow the progression of the disease and improve overall health and wellbeing.

Protein Name: Glycine Decarboxylase

Functions: The glycine cleavage system catalyzes the degradation of glycine. The P protein (GLDC) binds the alpha-amino group of glycine through its pyridoxal phosphate cofactor; CO(2) is released and the remaining methylamine moiety is then transferred to the lipoamide cofactor of the H protein (GCSH)

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