GLUCOSE TOXICITY - THE IMPLICATIONS OF HYPERGLYCEMIA IN THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF DIABETES-MELLITUS

Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) results from a disrupt ion of normal glucose homeostasis, primarily insulin secretion and hep atic and peripheral insulin action. However, chronic hyperglycemia has been shown in animal models to contribute to impaired insulin secreti on as well as to peripheral insulin resistance. Consequently, stringen t control measures aimed at ameliorating chronically elevated blood gl ucose levels may help lessen the cellular ''toxic'' effect of hypergly cemia.