The relationship between phospholipids and insulin resistance: From clinical to experimental studies

Abstract

Insulin resistance induced by high-fat diet and impropriate life style is a major contributor to the pathogenesis of metabolic disease. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Recent studies in metabolic dysfunction have extended this beyond simply elevated cholesterol and triglycerides levels and have identified a key role for lipid metabolism. For example, altered phospholipid metabolism has now become central in the pathogenesis of metabolic disease. In this review, we discuss the association between insulin sensitivity and phospholipid metabolism and highlight the most significant discoveries generated over the last several decades. Finally, we summarize the current knowledge surrounding the molecular mechanisms related to phospholipids and insulin resistance and provide new insight for future research into their relationship.

Keywords: glycerolphospholipid; insulin resistance; insulin sensitivity; phospholipids.

Figure 1

Structures of phospholipids

Figure 2

Biosynthetic pathways for phospholipids in mammalian cells

Figure 3

A summary of possible molecular mechanisms of phospholipids targeting insulin signalling