Molecular mechanisms of insulin resistance and dementia

Naoto Kubota, Takashi Kadowaki

Department of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo

Insulin resistance is a physiological condition in which insulin ability is impaired in the peripheral tissues. Insulin resistance is a key component associated with obesity such as metabolic syndrome, increasing risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Recently, some evidences suggest that insulin resistance is associated with cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD). The mechanisms linking insulin resistance to AD may include hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, advanced products of glycosylation, cerebrovascular disease, and inflammation. In the present issue, we discuss evidence supporting the involvement of the mechanisms in the regulation of insulin sensitivity and its association with AD.

Address correspondence to Dr. Naoto Kubota, Department of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo (7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan)