Simon Lees, PhD

Faculty of Medicine, Lakehead University

The IL-6 paradox in the development of insulin resistance

Paradoxically, elevated IL-6 is associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, while at the same time strong evidence supports the notion that IL-6 may facilitate improved insulin signaling as a result of physical activity. The proposed research will determine the role of IL-6 in response to physical activity in the prevention of type 2 diabetes. The findings will be critical to our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms leading to the development of insulin resistance and ultimately type 2 diabetes. Moreover, these results will provide valuable insight into the development of future therapeutic interventions.