A local research team has found a protein that controls blood sugar levels in the body, which they've called a world first.

The team said that their findings on the protein AIMP1 will appear in the U.S. journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The team is led by Seoul National University professor Kim Seong-hoon and Seoul Asan Hospital professor Lee Ki-eop

It's been generally accepted that hormones insulin and glucagon control blood sugar levels and that imbalances of these hormones will cause diabetes.

According to the researchers, however, the AIMP1 protein directly and indirectly plays a role in maintaining appropriate blood sugar levels by generating glucagon and stimulating the liver to secrete dextrose.

The protein is expected to be used in treating diabetes, as it constantly and quickly regulates blood sugars.

The research team previously discovered in 2001 and 2004 that the protein strengthens the immune system and produces new cells.