The shape of the glucose response curve during an OGTT heralds β−cell function in a large Chinese population

Background The shape of the glucose response during an oral glucose tolerance test can detect β-cell function and insulin resistance. But there were few studies in Chinese, so we aimed to verify the utility of these connections in a large Chinese population. Methods A total of 11,866 times of 3-h OGTT were categorized to either a monophasic or a multiphasic group based on the shape of the glucose response. Homeostasis model assessments of fasting insulin resistance, Matsuda index, insulinogenic index and the disposition index were assessed by plasma glucose and serum insulin concentration obtained at fasting or during an OGTT. Results Individuals with a monophasic shape had significantly higher glucose, insulin, and had significantly lower insulin sensitivity and impaired β-cell function than multiphasic group. In addition, Individuals were younger with a multiphasic shape compared to those with a monophasic shape. Conclusion The monophasic OGTT glucose response curve could reflect impaired β-cell function in a large Chinese population.