THE ROLE OF INSULIN RESISTANCE IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ISCHEMIC STROKE

Ischemic stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide, despite advances in acute interventions and risk factor management. Insulin resistance (IR) — traditionally associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus — has emerged as an independent, modifiable risk factor for ischemic stroke. Beyond its metabolic implications, IR promotes endothelial dysfunction, accelerates atherosclerosis, enhances thrombogenesis, and exacerbates neuroinflammatory and oxidative processes, thereby influencing both stroke incidence and prognosis. This review synthesizes current evidence on the role of IR in ischemic stroke pathogenesis, integrating epidemiological data, molecular mechanisms, and potential clinical applications. Literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2010–2025) was analyzed, prioritizing cohort studies, randomized trials, and mechanistic research.