Mitochondrial Impairment in Muscle Insulin Resistance

Recent research from our laboratory has detected novel findings concerning damage to mitochondria within skeletal muscle in type 2 diabetes (type 2 DM), damage that is evident morphologically and by functional criteria. In this project, we propose, firstly, to more fully test this hypothesis of an impaired bio-energetic capacity, and to begin to examine the pathogenesis of damage to mitochondria in type 2 DM. We are also interested in assessing the potential for reversing damage, and improving functional capacity of mitochondria through a weight loss or a combined exercise and weight loss intervention. The first specific aim is to measure the functional capacity of mitochondria in human skeletal muscle in type 2 DM and in those at apparent risk for type 2 DM (obese, sedentary, non-diabetic adults with the Metabolic Syndrome and/or impaired glucose tolerance). The second specific aim is to examine the morphology of mitochondria in human skeletal muscle in type 2 DM and in those at apparent risk for type 2 DM. The third specific aim is to examine the pathogenesis of mitochondrial damage in type 2 DM and in those at apparent risk for type 2 DM. The fourth specific aim is to assess whether exercise and diet can improve mitochondrial function and morphology in type 2 DM and in those at apparent risk for type 2 DM.