Insulin Resistance

 

Insulin resistance is a condition where tissues in the body do not respond adequately to insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas. While insulin is best known for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels, it also has important functions in energy metabolism. ‘Insulin resistance,’ as a clinical phenomenon, is normal in certain periods of the lifespan, such as pregnancy, puberty, and in periods of starvation.  However, it is commonly linked with obesity, and it usually precedes the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.  Normally, insulin has profound effects on the regulation of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. When insulin action becomes impaired, it can have serious effects on whole body metabolism. Because of its broad metabolic consequences, insulin resistance is often the defining marker for a compilation of disorders that are referred to as metabolic disease. As such, many researchers have focused their effort on identifying the molecular mechanisms of insulin resistance, understanding tissue specific and whole body metabolic consequences of insulin resistance, and developing therapeutic strategies that can improve insulin sensitivity.

Researchers in Endocrinology currently conducting insulin resistance related research:

Bergman, Draznin, Eckel, Goalstone, Hernandez, Kosmiski, MacLean, Pereira, Perreault, Reusch, C Wang, H Wang

Recent Publications Coming Soon!
Related Links

• The Obesity Society
• The International Association for the Study of Obesity
• The American Diabetes Association
• International Diabetes Federation
• The Endocrine Society

Obesity, Insulin Resistance, Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Disease

 

Updated: October 14, 2008