Al-Mustaqbal University Organizes a Scientific Workshop on Insulin Resistance and Its Relationship with Obesity and Metabolic Disorders

02/11/2026   Share :        
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As part of Al-Mustaqbal University's ongoing efforts to promote scientific knowledge and health awareness, the Department of Biochemistry at the College of Science organized a scientific workshop delivered by Asst. Lect. Hannadi Tahseen Muslim, entitled "Insulin Resistance and Its Relationship with Obesity and Metabolic Disorders." The workshop addressed important biochemical and physiological aspects of insulin resistance, highlighting its association with metabolic changes and their potential impact on human health. The workshop provided a comprehensive explanation of insulin resistance and the underlying biological mechanisms involved in reducing cellular responsiveness to insulin. Insulin is an essential hormone responsible for regulating blood glucose levels and maintaining metabolic balance through its involvement in carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism. The lecturer explained how reduced insulin sensitivity may lead to compensatory increases in insulin secretion to maintain normal blood glucose levels, and how the persistence of this condition can contribute to progressive metabolic disturbances. A significant part of the workshop focused on the relationship between insulin resistance and obesity, particularly the role of excessive adipose tissue accumulation and visceral fat. The discussion highlighted how adipose tissue functions as an active endocrine organ that releases various signaling molecules and inflammatory mediators, which may interfere with normal insulin signaling pathways. The lecturer also discussed the contribution of chronic low-grade inflammation, altered adipokine secretion, and changes in fatty acid metabolism to the development and progression of insulin resistance. Furthermore, the workshop examined several metabolic abnormalities associated with insulin resistance, including elevated blood glucose levels, disturbances in lipid profiles, increased triglyceride concentrations, and reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Attention was also given to the association between insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome, emphasizing the importance of understanding the biochemical relationships underlying these conditions. The scientific discussion also addressed the role of laboratory investigations in identifying and evaluating metabolic abnormalities. These included fasting blood glucose measurements, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile analysis, and insulin resistance assessment using indicators such as the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). The importance of interpreting laboratory findings alongside clinical information was also highlighted as an essential component of metabolic health assessment. In addition, the lecturer emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare and lifestyle modifications in reducing the risk of insulin resistance and its associated complications. These measures include maintaining a balanced diet, limiting excessive consumption of sugars and unhealthy fats, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, and undergoing periodic medical and laboratory examinations. This workshop reflects the Department of Biochemistry's commitment to strengthening scientific and educational activities, connecting biochemical concepts with practical medical applications, and raising awareness of the role of laboratory investigations and biochemical markers in understanding metabolic disorders, supporting early detection, and promoting preventive healthcare. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq