Insulin resistance (IR) is defined as a condition where normal plasma free insuconcentrations induce a reduced response of the body. In the narrower sense we understand IR as the impairment of insulin action in the target structure which may arise at any level of the insulin signalling cascade. In the clinical conditions we usually define it as the impairment of insulin action in glucose metabolism, although it is true that the impairment may concern different effects of insulin and different cell structures. The characteristic feature of IR linked to the metabolic syndrome or Type 2 diabetes is defective signalling which affects PI3-kinase branch of insulin signalling cascade. Other insulin actions depending on the signalling through the Ras complex and MAP-kinase, may not be affected. Due to compensatory hyperinsulinemia they may be even increased. The article summarizes some recent findings regarding the structure and regulation of insulin signalling cascade and analyses selected primary and secondary causes of IR which include genetic and epigenetic factors, the microRNA regulation role, metabolic, humoral and immunological factors. The detailed knowledge of the causes of IR opens possibilities of its rational treatment. This is currently based on the treatment of curable causes of IR, i.e. consistent compensation of diabetes, weight reduction, regimen arrangements (diet, physical activity), re-assessment of the need to use corticosteroids in therapy, treatment of coexisting conditions and possibly administration of metformin or pioglitazone.Key words: cytokines - insulin resistance - insulin signalling cascade.