This page describes the biochemistry of diabetes mellitus and some related topics in obesity and endocrinology. It covers the control of insulin secretion, the distinction between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the effects of insulin on target tissues, and the pathological changes seen after chronic insulin deficiency or insulin resistance. Some reference is included to related hormones and signalling systems, including glucagon, adrenalin, cortisol, thyroxin and leptin. Some effects of these hormones are also mentioned in the sections on carbohydrates, lipids and the overall integration of metabolism. Click here to skip over the detailed contents section.