Diabetes is one of the most prevalent metabolic diseases and its incidence is increasing throughout the world. Data from World Health Organization (WHO) point-out that diabetes is a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke and lower limb amputation and estimated 1.6 million deaths were directly caused by it in 2016. Population studies show that the incidence of this disease increases in women after menopause, when the production of estrogen is decreasing in them. Knowing the impact that estrogenic signaling has on insulin-secreting β cells is key to prevention and design of new therapeutic targets. This chapter explores the role of estrogen and their receptors in the regulation of insulin secretion and biosynthesis, proliferation, regeneration and survival in pancreatic β cells. In addition, delves into the genetic animal models developed and its application for the specific study of the different estrogen signaling pathways. Finally, discusses the impact of menopause and hormone replacement therapy on pancreatic β cell function.

糖尿病是最普遍的代谢性疾病之一，其发病率在世界范围内呈上升趋势。世界卫生组织 (WHO) 的数据指出，糖尿病是导致失明、肾衰竭、心脏病发作、中风和下肢截肢的主要原因，2016 年估计有 160 万人因此直接死亡。人口研究表明，糖尿病的发病率这种疾病在绝经后女性的发病率增加，此时她们体内的雌激素产量正在减少。了解雌激素信号对分泌胰岛素的 β 细胞的影响是预防和设计新治疗靶点的关键。本章探讨雌激素及其受体在调节胰腺β细胞的胰岛素分泌和生物合成、增殖、再生和存活中的作用。此外，深入研究开发的遗传动物模型及其在不同雌激素信号通路的具体研究中的应用。最后，讨论更年期和激素替代疗法对胰腺β细胞功能的影响。