Glucose toxicity: the implications of hyperglycemia in the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) results from a disruption of normal glucose homeostasis, primarily insulin secretion and hepatic and peripheral insulin action. However, chronic hyperglycemia has been shown in animal models to contribute to impaired insulin secretion as well as to peripheral insulin resistance. Consequently, stringent control measures aimed at ameliorating chronically elevated blood glucose levels may help lessen the cellular "toxic" effect of hyperglycemia.