Mechanisms linking obesity to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes

SE Kahn, RL Hull, KM Utzschneider - Nature, 2006 - nature.com
SE Kahn, RL Hull, KM Utzschneider
Nature, 2006nature.com
Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2
diabetes. In obese individuals, adipose tissue releases increased amounts of non-esterified
fatty acids, glycerol, hormones, pro-inflammatory cytokines and other factors that are
involved in the development of insulin resistance. When insulin resistance is accompanied
by dysfunction of pancreatic islet β-cells—the cells that release insulin—failure to control
blood glucose levels results. Abnormalities in β-cell function are therefore critical in defining …
Abstract
Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In obese individuals, adipose tissue releases increased amounts of non-esterified fatty acids, glycerol, hormones, pro-inflammatory cytokines and other factors that are involved in the development of insulin resistance. When insulin resistance is accompanied by dysfunction of pancreatic islet β-cells — the cells that release insulin — failure to control blood glucose levels results. Abnormalities in β-cell function are therefore critical in defining the risk and development of type 2 diabetes. This knowledge is fostering exploration of the molecular and genetic basis of the disease and new approaches to its treatment and prevention.
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