Metabolites are small molecules produced during the chemical reactions that sustain life in the body. They serve as the fundamental components of these reactions and include substances such as glucose, fats, and amino acids. The body continuously shifts between different metabolites to adapt to various physiological conditions, such as fasting or exercise. In type 2 diabetes, however, this metabolic flexibility is impaired, resulting in the accumulation of potentially harmful compounds.

In this study, we will investigate the relationship between altered metabolites and type 2 diabetes. We recruited men and women with or without type 2 diabetes and had them perform exercise to stimulate their metabolism. Blood and muscle samples were collected before and after exercise to identify metabolites that respond differently in individuals with diabetes. To explore whether these metabolites might contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, we will expose human cells and mice to selected metabolites and examine how their metabolism is affected. The insights gained from this research may help guide the development of new strategies to prevent or treat type 2 diabetes.