US scientists illuminate cell pathway key to insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes

A research team, led by USA-based La Jolla Institute scientist Joel Linden, has shed new light on the problem of insulin resistance, and identified the key participants in a molecular pathway that holds therapeutic promise for reducing the severity of type 2 diabetes.

The researchers looked at the role of adenosine, an immune system signaling molecule, in triggering inflammation, which significantly contributes to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance keeps the body from properly handling sugar and is one of the key factors underlying type 2 diabetes. Diabetes now affects nearly 26 million Americans and is the seventh leading cause of death in the USA, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

"Several previous studies have shown that if you block adenosine signaling, insulin resistance is diminished," said Dr Linden, adding: "However, it wasn't known exactly how the process worked or which cells were directly involved."