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Modulation of insulin action by advanced glycation endproducts: a new player in the field
C G Schalkwijk1, O Brouwers, C D A Stehouwer
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, University Hospital Maastricht, The Netherlands. C.Schalkwijk@intmed.unimaas.nl
Abstract:
Insulin resistance is characterized by an impaired responsiveness to the action of insulin at its multiple target organs. The accumulation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) has been demonstrated in clinical settings of insulin resistance such as in diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. In this review we have focused on advanced glycation as a modulator of insulin resistance. Structural and functional abnormalities of the insulin molecule by glycation and methylglyoxal may contribute to the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. In addition, it is likely that AGEs interfere in the complex molecular pathways of insulin signaling and as such in insulin resistance.
Insights
Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) contribute to insulin resistance by altering insulin's structure and interfering with insulin signaling pathways. This review explores AGEs as a key factor in insulin resistance development.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic disorders
- Endocrinology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Insulin resistance impairs insulin's action in target organs.
- Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) accumulate in conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
- AGEs are implicated in the pathophysiology of insulin resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of advanced glycation in modulating insulin resistance.
- To explore how glycation affects insulin structure and function.
- To investigate AGEs' impact on insulin signaling pathways.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on advanced glycation and insulin resistance.
- Analysis of studies investigating glycation of insulin and methylglyoxal.
- Examination of research on AGEs' interference with insulin signaling.
Main Results:
- Glycation and methylglyoxal can cause structural and functional abnormalities in insulin.
- AGEs may disrupt the molecular pathways involved in insulin signaling.
- Accumulation of AGEs is a common feature in clinical insulin resistance settings.
Conclusions:
- Advanced glycation is a significant modulator of insulin resistance.
- AGEs contribute to insulin resistance through direct effects on insulin and indirect effects on signaling.
- Targeting AGE formation or accumulation may offer therapeutic strategies for insulin resistance.
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