Epigenetics and the Origin of Muscle Insulin Resistance in Humans

Insulin resistance is defined as the decreased ability of insulin to perform its biological
function in the muscle, liver and fat. Genetic and environmental factors are known to
influence insulin sensitivity. It is not known how this is mediated. This study looks at the
role of epigenetics (modifications of proteins associated with DNA and methylation of DNA) in
alterations in insulin resistance. We will study lean healthy people, obese non-diabetic
people and people with type 2 diabetes to characterize the DNA methylation patterns in muscle
in each group. The second aim of the study is to see how a single bout of exercise affects
the DNA methylation in the muscle. The third aim looks at the effect of 8 weeks of supervised
exercise on the DNA methylation.

Volunteers must be:

- 21 - 55 years old

- must be non-lactating, non-pregnant

- not taking medications known to affect glucose or if taking them, on stable doses.

- free of significant heart or lung disease