Impairment of insulin action in non-obese, normal-glucose tolerant, first-degree relatives of Chinese type 2 diabetic patients

Non-obese, first-degree relatives of type 2 diabetic patients with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) exhibit remarkable impairment of insulin sensitivity and increased FFA levels. Insulin resistance is independent of obesity and blood glucose level. Progression from NGT to type 2 diabetes may mainly be attributed to deterioration of early insulin secretion.