Comparison of impedance to insulin-mediated glucose uptake in normal subjects and in subjects with latent diabetes

Abstract

A technique was devised for a more accurate measurement than has been heretofore possible of one of the factors responsible for hyperglycemia in the complex syndrome of diabetes. This factor is termed impedance and represents the tissues' insensitivity or resistance to insulin-mediated glucose uptake. It was measured by use of steady-state exogenous insulin and glucose infusions during a period of pharmacological suppression of endogenous insulin secretion. Endogenous new glucose production was also inhibited. Impedance as calculated is a direct function of steady-state glucose concentrations, since exogenous insulin concentrations were similar in all studies. Two groups of normal weight subjects were studied. One had maturity onset latent diabetes, and the other (matched for age, weight, and per cent adiposity) was normal. Impedance was closely reproducible in the same individual and remained relatively constant during prolonged infusions. The diabetics had average infusion glucose concentrations (and thus impedance) 68% higher than the normal group, and it is of note that their previously measured glucose intolerance differed by a similar degree; that is, the diabetic's intolerance (as defined by mean weighted plasma glucose response after oral glucose) was 52% greater than that of the normal individuals.