Researchers Identify Critical Link Between Obesity and Diabetes

Researchers have found a critical link between extra body fat and diabetes. Higher levels of a molecule called Retinol Binding Protein 4 (RBP4) play a key role in the development of insulin resistance. RBP4 creates a complex interplay between two branches of the body's immune system, leading to chronic fat tissue inflammation and, ultimately, insulin resistance. High RBP4 leads to insulin resistance, as well as cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and elevated levels of LDL cholesterol.