Adipose tissue content, muscle performance and physical function in obese adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy

Aims To determine leg intermuscular (IMAT) and subcutaneous (SQAT) adipose tissue and their relationships with muscle performance and function in obese adults with and without type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy (T2DMPN). Methods Seventy-nine age-matched obese adults were studied, 13 T2DM, 54 T2DMPN, and 24 obese controls. Leg fat (%IMAT, %SQAT) volumes were quantified using MRI. Ankle plantar flexion (PF) torque and power were assessed with isokinetic dynamometry. Physical function was assessed with 9-item Physical Performance Test (PPT), 6-minute walk distance, single-limb balance, and time to ascend 10 stairs. One-way ANOVAs determined group differences, and multiple regression predicted PPT score from disease status, % IMAT, and PF power. Results T2DMPN participants had 37% greater IMAT volumes and 15% lower SQAT volumes than controls (p =. 01). T2DMPN and T2DM showed reduced PF torque and power compared to controls. T2DMPN participants had lower PPT score, 6-minute walk, single-limb balance, and stair climbing than controls (all p <.05). %IMAT volume correlated inversely, and %SQAT correlated directly, with PPT. Leg %IMAT and disease status predicted 49% of PPT score. Conclusions T2DMPN may represent a shift in adipose tissue accumulation from SQAT to IMAT depots, which is inversely associated with muscle performance and physical function.