Insulin resistance, liver enzymes and the metabolic syndrome

ABSTRACT

The objective of the study was to test the hypothesis that enzymes conventionally associated with liver dysfunction [alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine arninotransferase] may predict diabetes. Three hundred type-2 diabetics were selected from Diabetic clinic and one hundred and fifty non-diabetes control from population. Biochemical testing of fasting and 2 hours serum insulin, renal, liver functions and protein was measured by using standard method and instruments. Insulin resistance was calculated using the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance [HOMA-IR] method. Statistical analysis of samples and control subjects were done by using SPSS-13. At baseline all three enzymes were related to most of the features of the metabolic syndrome. Serum alkaline phosphatase levels as well as serum transaminases also showed a statistical significant difference at P<0.05. The HOMA-IR in the type-2 diabetic group was significantly greater than that of the control group [mean +/- SD 3.84 +/- 2.3 vs. 1.62 +/- 0.79 units [P<0.05]. Serum total proteins and albumin significantly reduced in type-2 diabetic subjects. Mild elevations in liver enzymes and decreased levels in serum proteins are associated with features of the metabolic syndrome