Insulin sensitivity and sensory nerve function in non-diabetic human subjects.

The direct effect of reduced insulin sensitivity (measured by insulin tolerance test and fasting plasma insulin) on sensory nerve function was examined in non-diabetic human subjects. Thermal sensation (measured by warm and cold perception thresholds) deteriorated with fasting hyperinsulinaemia in the presence of normoglycaemia and normal glucose tolerance. The results suggest a possible role for insulin in sensory nerve function, also that deficits in insulin action per se may adversely affect the function of small sensory nerves independent of glycaemic levels, and may thus be implicated in the aetiology of diabetic neuropathy.