Understanding Metabolism and Inflammation Risks for Diabetes in Adolescents

The Role of Circulating Meta-Inflammatory Monocytes in Adolescent Insulin Resistance

This research study collects health-related information and blood samples to better understand how body composition, lifestyle habits, and diet influence meta-inflammatory monocytes (MiMos) in adolescents. The hypothesis of this study is that adolescents at risk for metabolic disease have enhanced MiMo related activities leading to insulin resistance.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Between 14 and 18 years of age
• Tanner stage 4 or 5 (mature adult stage of puberty)
• Normal weight (BMI ≥ 5th percentile & < 85th percentile), overweight (BMI > 86th percentile) & < 94th percentile), obese weight (BMI percentile ≥ 95th percentile), and/or pre-diabetes (HbA1c > 5.7%)
• For Type 2 Diabetes cohort, diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently pregnant
• Use medications known to affect glucose metabolism (immunosuppressive medications, cancer medications, or high dose steroids), unless prescribed for Type 2 Diabetes management
• Prior diagnosis of autoimmune disease, cancer, or a cognitive or perceptual disability that would inhibit following directions of study staff
• Allergies or intolerance to milk, soy, or palm oil