Glucose transporters and insulin action: implications for insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus

Article Abstract:

Cell membranes are not permeable to carbohydrates, so a transporter molecule is required to transport sugar across the cell membrane. The GLUT proteins are examples of glucose transporter proteins. GLUT-4 appears to be the major sugar transporter protein. A defect in GLUT-4 or its action may cause insulin resistance, which occurs when insulin does not stimulate sugar metabolism as it normally should. Insulin resistance in turn can lead to the development of type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes. Exercise can lower insulin resistance, and may do so by stimulating GLUT-4 activity.

Research, Carrier proteins, Transport proteins, Biological transport, Active, Active biological transport, Glucose metabolism

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Putting the brakes on insulin signaling

Article Abstract:

Researchers have found a naturally occurring protein in the body called TRB3 that blocks the action of insulin, causing insulin resistance. This mechanism may operate during fasting and starvation, allowing the live to release blood sugar. However, chronic insulin resistance causes type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes. Blocking the action of TRB3 may be an effective way of treating type 2 diabetes.

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Nerves, fat, and insulin resistance

Article Abstract:

The parasympathetic nervous system regulates the metabolism of free fatty acids in the body. When the parasympathetic nervous system is not working properly, this causes greater than normal amounts of free fatty acids. This in turn can cause insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. This may explain why diabetics have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.

Nervous system, Parasympathetic, Parasympathetic nervous system, Fatty acid metabolism

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