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Interleukin-18 induces insulin resistance in the hyperthyroid state
Shozo Miyauchi1, Bunzo Matsuura, Teruhisa Ueda
1Department of Internal Medicine, Uwajima City Hospital, Uwajima, Ehime 798-8510, Japan. syozo@uwajima-mh.jp
Endocrine Journal
|December 22, 2012
Summary
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is elevated in hyperthyroid Graves' disease and contributes to insulin resistance. This study confirms IL-18's role in developing insulin resistance in hyperthyroidism.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Immunology
Background:
- Serum interleukin-18 (IL-18) levels are elevated in patients with hyperthyroid Graves' disease.
- Insulin resistance is a known complication of hyperthyroidism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between IL-18 and insulin resistance in hyperthyroid Graves' disease patients and experimental models.
- To determine if IL-18 directly induces insulin resistance.
Main Methods:
- Correlational analysis of serum IL-18 levels with thyroid function and insulin resistance parameters in patients.
- Induction of hyperthyroidism in mice and assessment of IL-18 levels and insulin resistance.
- Direct administration of IL-18 to mice to evaluate its effect on insulin resistance.
Main Results:
- A significant positive correlation was found between serum IL-18 levels and thyroid function parameters, as well as insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in hyperthyroid Graves' disease patients.
- Experimental hyperthyroid mice exhibited significantly elevated IL-18 levels.
- Both experimental hyperthyroid mice and mice injected with IL-18 showed increased insulin resistance.
Conclusions:
- Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is significantly associated with thyroid dysfunction and insulin resistance in hyperthyroid Graves' disease.
- Elevated IL-18 levels in hyperthyroidism contribute to the development of insulin resistance.
- IL-18 is identified as a key factor inducing insulin resistance in hyperthyroid states.
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