Insulin Dynamics and Pathophysiology in Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Youth-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing around the globe. The increased disease burden of youth-onset T2D portends substantial consequences for the health outcomes of young people and for health care systems. The pathophysiology of this condition is characterized by insulin resistance and initial insulin hypersecretion +/- an inherent insulin secretory defect, with progressive loss of stimulated insulin secretion leading to pancreatic β-cell failure. Research studies focusing on youth-onset T2D have illuminated key differences for youth- versus adult-onset T2D, with youth having more profound insulin resistance and quicker progression to loss of sufficient insulin secretion to maintain euglycemia. Therapies targeted to improve both insulin resistance and, importantly, maintain sufficient insulin secretory function over the lifespan in youth-onset T2D are needed.