Obesity is associated with a systemic, chronic, inflammatory response that involves the production of various cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor and interleukins. Several interleukins, in particular IL-6 and IL-1, have been suggested to contribute to the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus, by acting both on insulin signaling pathways and on pancreatic beta and alpha cells. This article provides insights into the latest findings regarding the role of these interleukins in the pathology and physiology of obesity-related insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- Bruno Fève
- Jean-Philippe Bastard
