Final answer:
In type 2 diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance occurs when cells become unresponsive to insulin due to malfunctioning insulin-receptor sites. This leads to elevated levels of glucose in the blood. Insulin resistance can be exacerbated by a secondary reduction in insulin secretion.
Step-by-step explanation:
In type 2 diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance occurs when cells become unresponsive to insulin due to malfunctioning insulin-receptor sites. As a result, the target cells are less sensitive to the effects of insulin, leading to elevated levels of glucose in the blood. Insulin resistance can be exacerbated by a secondary reduction in insulin secretion.