Sulfonylureas are a class of organic compounds used in the management of type 2 diabetes. They act by increasing insulin release from the beta cells in the pancreas.
Mode of Action
Sulfonylureas work by binding to the ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels in the beta cell of the pancreas causing closure. Closure of these channels triggers the opening of voltage gated calcium channels, a subsequent rise in intracellular calcium concentration and a subsequent release of insulin secretory granules. This is remarkably similar to how a rise in glucose stimulates the release of insulin.