Liver fat accumulation is a common feature of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, and has been linked to the development of these conditions. The aim of this review is to explore the relationship between liver fat and the incidence of diabetes, and to examine the potential mechanisms underlying this relationship.
The role of liver fat in insulin resistance
Insulin resistance is a key feature of type 2 diabetes, and is characterized by reduced insulin sensitivity in target tissues such as the liver, muscle and adipose tissue. One of the major contributors to insulin resistance is the accumulation of fat in the liver, which impairs hepatic insulin sensitivity and leads to increased gluconeogenesis and glucose output. In addition, liver fat accumulation is associated with increased levels of inflammatory markers, which further exacerbate insulin resistance [1].