Diabetes Mellitus Biochemistry Overview

Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 (IDDM) is a metabolic alteration that disrupts the body's ability to manage blood sugar levels. This is caused by the body's own immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which leads to insulin deficiency.

In Type 1 Diabetes, the lack of insulin causes glucose to build up in the blood, leading to a state called hyperglycemia. This is because insulin is the key that unlocks cells to allow glucose to enter and provide energy. Without insulin, the cells are 'locked' out.

When cells are starved for glucose, they look for alternative sources of energy. This leads to increased breakdown of fat, resulting in high levels of fatty acids in the blood.

The excess fatty acids from lipolysis get converted into ketone bodies in the liver. Ketone bodies are like a backup fuel source, but if they build up too much, it can lead to acidosis, a dangerous state where the blood becomes too acidic.

The combination of high ketone body levels and acidity in the blood is known as ketoacidosis. This condition is dangerous and can lead to a coma if not treated quickly.

In Type 1 Diabetes, the lack of insulin prevents the body from effectively taking up glucose from the blood. This leads to reduced glucose utilization by tissues, further worsening the hyperglycemia.

Hyperglycemia leads to an increase in glucose levels in the urine, a condition called polyuria. This is because the kidneys try to eliminate the excess glucose through urine.

The high levels of glucose in the urine draw water out of the body, causing dehydration. This dehydration, combined with electrolyte loss as the body tries to flush out extra glucose, can lead to serious complications.

With no insulin, the body's metabolic processes go into overdrive. Proteolysis, or the breakdown of proteins, is increased as the body seeks alternative sources of energy.

Type 1 Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management through insulin therapy. Insulin replacement is essential for regulating blood glucose levels, preventing complications, and ensuring overall well-being.

A condition where the body cannot use glucose properly, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Type of diabetes where the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, causing high blood sugar.

Type of diabetes where the body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar.

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels.

A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels.

Process of converting glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver and muscles.

Breakdown of glycogen into glucose for energy.

Process of producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources like amino acids and glycerol.

A diagnostic test that measures how well the body processes a glucose load.

Damage to blood vessels caused by diabetes, especially affecting small blood vessels in the eyes (retinopathy) and kidneys (nephropathy).

Damage to large blood vessels caused by diabetes, leading to atherosclerosis and complications like gangrene, ulcers, and amputation.

Damage to nerves caused by diabetes, often leading to numbness, tingling, and pain.

Inability of the body to properly use insulin, leading to high blood sugar.

A state of high blood sugar.

A state of very low blood sugar.