Iron Deficiency in Muscle Does Not Cause Insulin Resistance
Author Information
Author(s): Han Dong-Ho, Hancock Chad R., Jung Su Ryun, Higashida Kazuhiko, Kim Sang Hyun, Holloszy John O.
Primary Institution: Washington University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Does a deficiency of the mitochondrial electron transport chain cause muscle insulin resistance?
Conclusion
The study concludes that iron deficiency protects against insulin resistance induced by a high fat diet, arguing against the hypothesis that mitochondrial dysfunction causes insulin resistance.
Supporting Evidence
- Iron deficiency resulted in a decrease in expression of iron-containing proteins of the mitochondrial respiratory chain in muscle.
- The high fat diet caused severe insulin resistance of muscle glucose transport.
- Iron deficiency completely protected against the high fat diet-induced muscle insulin resistance.
Takeaway
The study found that not having enough iron in the diet helps prevent insulin resistance in muscles, even when eating a lot of fat.
Methodology
Rats were made iron deficient and fed a high fat diet to evaluate insulin resistance and mitochondrial function.
Participant Demographics
Male Wistar rats
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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