The human genome counts hundreds of GPCRs specialized to sense thousands of different extracellular cues, including light, odorants and nutrients in addition to
hormones. Primordial GPCRs were likely
glucose transporters that became sensors to monitor the abundance of nutrients and direct the cell to switch from aerobic metabolism to fermentation. Human β cells express multiple GPCRs that contribute to regulate
glucose homeostasis, cooperating with many others expressed by a variety of cell types and tissues. These GPCRs are intensely studied as pharmacological targets to treat
type 2 diabetes in adults. The dramatic rise of
type 2 diabetes incidence in pediatric age is likely correlated to the rapidly evolving lifestyle of children and adolescents of the new century. Current pharmacological treatments are based on
therapies designed for adults, while youth and puberty are characterized by a different hormonal balance related to
glucose metabolism. This review focuses on GPCRs functional traits that are relevant for β cells function, with an emphasis on aspects that could help to differentiate new treatments specifically addressed to young
type 2 diabetes patients.