Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by progressive
deterioration in the function of the pancreatic beta-cells, which are the cells that produce
and secrete insulin (the hormone primarily responsible for the handling of glucose in the
body). We propose a double-blind, randomized controlled study comparing the effect of
liraglutide (a novel anti-diabetic drug with beta-cell protective potential) versus placebo,
on the preservation of beta-cell function over one year in patients with T2DM. This study may
demonstrate an important beta-cell protective capacity of liraglutide.