Serum Uric Acid as an Early Marker of Insulin Resistance in Normoglycemic Individuals

Abstract

Introduction

Insulin resistance (IR) is a major pathophysiological mechanism underlying type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. Metabolic abnormalities related to insulin resistance often develop before the onset of hyperglycemia. Therefore, identifying early biochemical markers during the normoglycemic stage is important for early detection and prevention.

Objective

To evaluate the potential role of serum uric acid (SUA) as an early biochemical marker of insulin resistance in normoglycemic individuals.

Methods

A review of relevant scientific literature was conducted using biomedical databases to analyze studies examining the relationship between serum uric acid levels and insulin resistance indices in normoglycemic populations.

Results

Multiple studies have reported a significant association between elevated serum uric acid levels and insulin resistance even in individuals with normal fasting glucose levels. Increased serum uric acid has been linked to mechanisms such as oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and impaired insulin signaling, all of which contribute to the development of insulin resistance.

Conclusion

Serum uric acid may serve as an early metabolic indicator of insulin resistance before the onset of overt hyper glycemia. Monitoring SUA levels could help identify individuals at risk for metabolic disorders and facilitate early preventive interventions.