Tracking the culprits of insulin resistance 19 February 2018 Lipids are molecules that form the building blocks of the cells comprising our bodies. When some lipids build up, especially in the liver and the muscles, it can lead to insulin resistance. This can lead to type 2 diabetes. Scientists don’t know exactly which lipids trigger insulin resistance, but they have a couple of prime suspects. Associate Professor Nigel Turner from the University of New South Wales has one lipid, C18:0 ceramide, firmly in his sites and thanks to a grant from the Diabetes Australia Research Trust he will be able to investigate further. “Recent studies in animals and humans have shown that insulin resistance in muscle is closely associated with the build-up of C18:0 ceramide,” Associate Professor Turner said. “We have developed some compounds which target the enzymes responsible for producing C:18:0 ceramide, so we want to see if reducing the amount of this lipid could also reduce insulin resistance. “We hope it leads to more effective treatments for people with type 2 diabetes.” Associate Professor Turner’s research is supported by Diabetes Australia through the Diabetes Australia Research Trust. Find out how you can help support research projects like this here.
Blog 5 December 2023 Those sleepless summer nights Many of us look forward to the long, lazy summer days. But for others, the rise in temperature is a challenge to both the quality and quantity of their sleep. Continue Reading
Blog 5 December 2023 Top 10 articles for 2023 Perhaps unsurprisingly the top stories during 2023 were related to the availability, or otherwise, of medications. The nationwide shortage of... Continue Reading
Blog 4 December 2023 Managing diabetes and stress during the holiday season Nine tips to manage stress at Christmas (and don't be too hard on yourself if you have the occasional indulgence)! Continue Reading