Assessment of Intramyocellular and Extramyocellular Lipid Content in Thigh Muscle of Type 2 Diabetes Patients Using MRS

Motivation: Muscle fat accumulation in type 2 diabetes is linked to insulin resistance and mobility loss, but accurately quantifying this fat remains a challenge. Goal(s): This study aims to evaluate the distribution of intramyocellular (IMCL) and extramyocellular lipids (EMCL) in diabetic thigh muscles using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to gain insights into lipid metabolism alterations. Approach: MRS was used to assess IMCL and EMCL levels in the thigh muscle of diabetic and healthy subjects, correlating findings with glucose and insulin resistance markers. Results: Diabetics exhibited significantly higher EMCL levels, indicating potential metabolic dysfunction. IMCL correlation with insulin resistance was not conclusive. Impact: This study demonstrates MRS's potential to non-invasively assess muscle lipid composition in diabetes, offering insights into metabolic dysfunction. It opens pathways for further research on lipid metabolism's role in diabetes and may aid targeted therapeutic interventions.