Review article

Obesity and Metabolic Insulin Resistance

Josip Žmire

Abstract

Insulin resistance in obesity is caused
by the postreceptor defect. Obesity, physical inactivity
and genetic predisposition are the main causes of insulin
resistance. The increased lipolysis due to sympathetic
nervous system hyperactivity releases nonesterifi ed fatty
acids that serve as precursors of triglyceride synthesis.
Triglycerides and free fatty acids accumulate in hepatic and
muscle cells causing changes in intracellular metabolism
that lead to insulin resistance in these tissues. Moreover,
adipose tissue acts as an endocrine organ that secretes
various hormones – adipokines. In obesity, TNF-α, IL-6, ASP,
resistin and angiotensin promote insulin resistance, while
weight loss stimulates adiponectin and leptin secretion
both of which improve insulin sensitivity.

Keywords

obesity; insulin resistance; nonesterifi ed fatty acids; sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity; 17- -OH steroid dehydrogenase hyperactivity; adipokines; TNF-α; adiponectin

Hrčak ID:

19010

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/19010

Publication date:

15.11.2004.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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