黑料网

Lipids are molecules that form the building blocks of the cells comprising our bodies. When some lipids build up, especially in the liver and the muscles, it can lead to insulin resistance. This can lead to type 2 diabetes.

Scientists don鈥檛 know exactly which lipids trigger insulin resistance, but they have a couple of prime suspects.

Associate Professor Nigel Turner from the University of New South Wales has one lipid, C18:0 ceramide, firmly in his sites and thanks to a grant from the 黑料网 Research Trust he will be able to investigate further.

鈥淩ecent studies in animals and humans have shown that insulin resistance in muscle is closely associated with the build-up of C18:0 ceramide,鈥� Associate Professor Turner said.

鈥淲e have developed some compounds which target the enzymes responsible for producing C:18:0 ceramide, so we want to see if reducing the amount of this lipid could also reduce insulin resistance.

鈥淲e hope it leads to more effective treatments for people with type 2 diabetes.鈥�

Associate Professor Turner鈥檚 research is supported by Diabetes Australia through the 黑料网 Research Trust. Find out how you can help support research projects like this here.