In a patient with long-term type 2 diabetes exhibiting pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, what mechanism explains why administered insulin sometimes fails to effectively lower blood glucose levels?

💡 Explanation

Insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes stems from impaired insulin signaling, decreasing GLUT4 translocation in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Because of this reduced translocation, glucose uptake is diminished. Therefore, insulin's impact on glucose lowering is reduced rather than increased receptor sensitivity or altered renal handling.

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