Normal-weight Diabetes: Adipocyte-directed Therapy With Pioglitazone or Tirzepatide
This study is to investigate how adipocyte (fat cell) function and fat distribution differ between individuals with normal-weight type 2 diabetes (NWD), those with overweight type 2 diabetes (OWD), and normal-weight controls without diabetes (NWC). The study will assess whether adipocyte-directed therapies, specifically pioglitazone and tirzepatide, can improve insulin resistance, adipocyte function, and fat distribution in individuals with NWD. By analyzing the biological mechanisms underlying adipocyte dysfunction, the study aims to provide insights into novel treatment strategies for improving metabolic health in normal-weight individuals with type 2 diabetes.
⁃ Normal-Weight Diabetes (NWD) Group:
• Age: 30 to 70 years old.
• Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D): Based on a previous diagnosis or confirmed by laboratory testing at screening (A1c \> 5.7% or fasting glucose \> 100 mg/dL).
• HbA1c Range: Between 5.7% and 8%, with a stable medication or lifestyle regimen for at least 3 months.
• BMI: Between 19 and 24.9 kg/m².
• Diabetes Medications: All diabetes medications are allowed, except insulin and pioglitazone. GLP-1 receptor agonists are permitted if the dose has been stable for 3 months.
• Stable Body Weight: Body weight must have been stable (no more than 2 kg change) over the last 3 months.
⁃ Normal-Weight Control (NWC) Group:
• Age: 30 to 70 years old.
• No Diagnosis of Diabetes: Fasting plasma glucose \< 100 mg/dL and A1c \< 5.7%, with no history of glucose-lowering medications.
• BMI: Between 19 and 24.9 kg/m².
• Stable Body Weight: No more than 2 kg change over the past 3 months. -