What is the Origin of Homeostatic Model Assessment?

The model was developed in the late 20th century to provide researchers and clinicians with a reliable method for quantifying insulin resistance from routine fasting blood tests, circumventing the need for more complex, time-consuming clamp studies. "Homeostatic Model Assessment" describes the mathematical framework used to evaluate the balance of glucose and insulin in the fasting state. Its utility is foundational in the study of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

What is the Mechanism of Homeostatic Model Assessment?

The HOMA calculation is based on the physiological principle that in a state of fasting equilibrium, the product of insulin and glucose concentrations reflects the degree of insulin sensitivity and the compensatory insulin secretion by the pancreatic beta-cells. Elevated HOMA-IR values indicate that higher-than-normal insulin levels are required to maintain a given glucose level, which is the definition of insulin resistance. The model's predictive power stems from its ability to capture this critical hormonal-metabolic inefficiency.

Homeostatic Model Assessment ∞ Area

Homeostatic Model Assessment

Meaning

A widely used, non-invasive mathematical model, often referred to as HOMA-IR, that utilizes fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels to estimate insulin resistance and beta-cell function. This clinical tool provides a simple, quantitative index of metabolic health and the efficiency of glucose regulation in an individual. It serves as a valuable surrogate marker for identifying subclinical metabolic dysfunction long before overt diabetes develops.