Pathophysiology of Insulin Resistance: Implications for Prevention

Insulin resistance is a condition in which there is decreased ability of insulin to stimulate glucose disposal by muscle, adipose tissue, and liver. Insulin resistance (IR) is characterized by decreasing sensitivity of target tissues to the action of insulin, elevated blood glucose concentration, and increased hepatic production of atherogenic lipids. IR is associated with declining insulin production by the pancreas, the emergence of T2DM, and increasing risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).