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Updated: May 18, 2026

Differentiated Mouse Adipocytes in Primary Culture: A Model of Insulin Resistance
Published on: February 17, 2023
[RAAS and insulin resistance]
Hiroyuki Motoshima1, Eiichi Araki
1Department of Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University.
Abstract:
The role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) on the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is an area of growing interest. Most of the deleterious actions of the RAAS on insulin signals appear to be mediated through activation of the serine/threonine kinase, oxidative stress and tissue-inflammation in insulin-sensitive organs. Both experimental and clinical studies demonstrated that angiotensin II (Ang II) and aldosterone could play a role in the development of insulin resistance, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Large randomized clinical trials revealed that blockade of the RAAS with either angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitors or AT1 receptor blockers results in decreased T2DM incidence, with a minor attenuation of markers for insulin resistance. This review focuses on the role of RAAS in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, as well as on clinical relevance of RAAS blockade in the prevention and treatment of the metabolic syndrome and pre-diabetes.
Insights
The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) contributes to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Blocking the RAAS reduces type 2 diabetes incidence, highlighting its therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Cardiovascular Disease Pathophysiology
Context:
- The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is increasingly implicated in metabolic disorders.
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are significant global health challenges.
Purpose:
- To review the role of the RAAS in the development of insulin resistance and T2DM.
- To discuss the clinical relevance of RAAS blockade in metabolic syndrome and pre-diabetes.
Summary:
- RAAS activation, particularly via angiotensin II (Ang II) and aldosterone, promotes insulin resistance through oxidative stress and inflammation in insulin-sensitive organs.
- Experimental and clinical studies link RAAS activity to insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
- RAAS blockade with ACE inhibitors or ARBs has been shown to decrease T2DM incidence.
Impact:
- Understanding RAAS involvement offers insights into preventing and treating metabolic syndrome and pre-diabetes.
- RAAS blockade presents a viable strategy for managing T2DM risk and potentially improving insulin sensitivity.
- This review consolidates current knowledge on RAAS and metabolic health, guiding future research and clinical practice.
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