The present invention provides methods for using human placental alkaline phosphatase
or an active derivative to reduce blood glucose level in a mammal. Treatment regimens
provided by the invention maybe used to control Type 1 and Type 2 forms of diabetes
in humans. The methods and treatment regimens maybe effective to maintain the human's
blood glucose level below about 10 mM, and preferably within the normal range of
4 mM to 7 mM. The methods and treatment regimens may be used in combination with
administration of known anti-diabetic medicaments. Also provided by the invention
is a method for inducing weight loss or reducing an expected weight gain caused
by or associated with obesity or Type 2 diabetes. The invention further provides
a preparation for administration to a human, the preparation comprising homogeneous
purified human placental alkaline phosphatase in a physiologically acceptable carrier.