CDK5 and diabetes mellitus: In this context, CDK5 role in glucose metabolism and diabetes has been extensively studied.260CDK5 activation positively regulates insulin promoter transcription, thereby increasing insulin production under physiological conditions.260 However, dysregulation of CDK5 and its activating partner, p35, has been linked to β-cell failure in high-glucose conditions.260 Yet, CDK5 has also been implicated in promoting β-cell survival.