Albuminuria Changes and Cardiovascular and Renal Outcomes in Type 1 Diabetes: The DCCT/EDIC Study

Renal and Cardiovascular Risk According to Tertiles of Urinary Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio: The Adolescent Type 1 Diabetes Cardio-Renal Intervention Trial (AdDIT)

OBJECTIVE

Baseline data from the Adolescent Type 1 Diabetes Cardio-Renal Intervention Trial (AdDIT) indicated that tertiles of urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratios (ACRs) in the normal range at age 10-16 years are associated with risk markers for diabetic nephropathy (DN) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). We aimed to determine whether the top ACR tertile remained associated with DN and CVD risk over the 2-4-year AdDIT study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

One hundred fifty adolescents (mean age 14.1 years [SD 1.6]) with baseline ACR in the upper tertile (high-ACR group) recruited to the AdDIT trial, who remained untreated, and 396 (age 14.3 years [1.6]) with ACR in the middle and lower tertiles (low-ACR group), who completed the parallel AdDIT observational study, were evaluated prospectively with assessments of ACR and renal and CVD markers, combined with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) at baseline and end of study.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 3.9 years, the cumulative incidence of microalbuminuria was 16.3% in the high-ACR versus 5.5% in the low-ACR group (log-rank P < 0.001). Cox models showed independent contributions of the high-ACR group (hazard ratio 4.29 [95% CI 2.08-8.85]) and HbA_1c (1.37 [1.10-1.72]) to microalbuminuria risk. cIMT change from baseline was significantly greater in the high- versus low-ACR group (mean difference 0.010 mm [0.079], P = 0.006). Changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate, systolic blood pressure, and hs-CRP were also significantly greater in the high-ACR group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

ACR at the higher end of the normal range at the age of 10-16 years is associated with an increased risk of progression to microalbuminuria and future CVD risk, independently of HbA_1c.

Dietary Patterns Over Time and Microalbuminuria in Youth and Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: The SEARCH Nutrition Ancillary Study

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the association between diet quality and microalbuminuria in youth-onset type 1 diabetes using three indices: a modified Mediterranean diet score for children and adolescents (mKIDMED), the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and the Healthy Eating Index-2010 (HEI).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Youth and young adults from the SEARCH (SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth) Nutrition Ancillary Study (SNAS) diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2002-2008, who had repeated dietary assessments at baseline and follow-up visits and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) measured at the outcome visit (2012-2015) (n = 461), were selected for study. Regression models estimated the association between each longitudinally assessed diet score and UACR and microalbuminuria (UACR ≥30 μg/mg).

RESULTS

The cohort was 43% female, and at follow-up, mean age was 20 years, disease duration was 108 months, and 7% had microalbuminuria. Adherence to a higher-quality diet was low for the mKIDMED (mean 3.7 of a possible range of -3 to 12) and the DASH (mean 42 of 80) and better, for the HEI (mean 56.3 of 100). A borderline inverse association was observed between the HEI score and microalbuminuria after adjustment for caloric and protein intake and demographic and disease factors (odds ratio [OR]HEI 0.83, P = 0.07), which lost significance with further adjustment for HbA1c and systolic blood pressure (ORHEI 0.86, P = 0.19). Results were similar for continuous UACR. No significant associations were observed for diet quality characterized by the mKIDMED or DASH indices.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater adherence to the HEI may be beneficial for kidney health in youth and young adults with type 1 diabetes. Low adherence to the mKIDMED and DASH diets may explain the lack of association with microalbuminuria.

Albuminuric and non-albuminuric chronic kidney disease in type 1 diabetes: Association with major vascular outcomes risk and all-cause mortality

AIMS

Albuminuric and non-albuminuric phenotypes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) may have different cardiovascular risk and survival in type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Herein we estimated risk of major vascular outcomes by the EURODIAB PCS score and determined all-cause mortality rate in 774 T1DM according to CKD phenotypes.

METHODS

We evaluated the distribution of CKD phenotypes [no CKD, stages 1-2, non-albuminuric stage ≥3 (Alb^-CKD), albuminuric stage ≥3 (Alb⁺CKD)], the EURODIAB risk score for major vascular outcomes [low- (LS), intermediate- (IS), and high- (HS) risk] and all-cause mortality over a follow-up of 8.25 ± 2.34 years.

RESULTS

Out of 774 subjects, 692 (89.4%) had no CKD, 53 (6.8%) CKD stages 1-2, 17 (2.2%) Alb^-CKD and 12 (1.6%) Alb⁺CKD; 466 (60.2%) had LS, 205 (26.5%) IS and 103 (13.3%) HS. Distribution of HS was: no CKD, 9.1%; CKD stages 1-2, 34.0%; Alb^-CKD, 64.7%; Alb⁺CKD, 91.7% (P < 0.0001). Mortality increased from no CKD, 3.0%; to stages 1-2, 15.1% (HR 4.504); Alb^-CKD, 29.4% (8.573); Alb⁺CKD, 50.0% (20.683, P < 0.0001). Accounting for age and sex, HRs for mortality compared to no CKD were: CKD stages 1-2, 3.84 (P = 0.001); Alb^-CKD, 2.97 (P = 0.046); Alb⁺CKD, 7.44 (P < 0.0001). Adjusting for sex and the EURODIAB score, HRs for mortality compared to no CKD were: CKD stages 1-2, 2.57 (P = 0.027); Alb^-CKD, 2.77 (P = 0.058); Alb⁺CKD, 4.58 (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

In our T1DM cohort, one fifth of those with CKDs were non-albuminuric. This phenotype was associated with higher risk of major outcomes and similar rate of mortality as compared to CKD stages 1-2. The greatest risk and highest mortality occur in patients with Alb⁺CKD.

Diabetic retinopathy is associated with the presence and burden of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis in type 1 diabetes

Background

Cardiovascular (CV) disease due to atherosclerosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in adult patients with diabetes, either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The aim of the study was to assess the association of the frequency and the burden of subclinical carotid atherosclerotic disease in patients with type 1 diabetes according to the presence and severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 340 patients with type 1 diabetes (41.5% with DR), and in 304 non-diabetic individuals. All participants were free from previous CV disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD). B-mode carotid ultrasound imaging was performed in all the study subjects. Patients with type 1 diabetes underwent a full eye examination, and DR patients were divided into two groups: mild disease and advanced disease.

Results

In the group of patients with type 1 diabetes, the percentage of patients with carotid plaques was higher in those with DR compared with those without DR (44.7% vs. 24.1%, p < 0.001). Patients with DR also presented a higher incidence of ≥ 2 carotid plaques (25.5% vs. 11.1%, p < 0.001). Apart from other traditional cardiovascular risk factors, the presence of advanced stages of DR was independently associated with the presence (p = 0.044) and the burden (≥ 2 carotid plaques; p = 0.009) of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis.

Conclusions

In patients with type 1 diabetes without previous CV disease or established CKD, the presence of advanced stages of DR is associated with a higher atherosclerotic burden in the carotid arteries. The presence of DR identifies patients at risk for carotid atherosclerotic disease.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12933-018-0706-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Regression of albuminuria and its association with incident cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in type 1 diabetes: the FinnDiane Study

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Our aim was to assess regression of albuminuria and its clinical consequences in type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

The analysis included 3642 participants from the Finnish Diabetic Nephropathy (FinnDiane) Study with a 24 h urine sample and a history of albuminuria available at baseline. A total of 2729 individuals had normal AER, 438 a history of microalbuminuria and 475 a history of macroalbuminuria. Regression was defined as a change from a higher category of albuminuria pre-baseline to a lower category in two out of the three most recent urine samples at baseline. The impact of regression on cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary procedure) and mortality was analysed over a follow-up of 14.0 years (interquartile range 11.9-15.9).

RESULTS

In total, 102 (23.3%) individuals with prior microalbuminuria and 111 (23.4%) with prior macroalbuminuria had regressed at baseline. For individuals with normal AER as a reference, the age-adjusted HRs (95% CI) for cardiovascular events were 1.42 (0.75, 2.68) in individuals with regression from microalbuminuria, 2.62 (1.95, 3.54) in individuals with sustained microalbuminuria, 3.15 (2.02, 4.92) in individuals with regression from macroalbuminuria and 5.49 (4.31, 7.00) in individuals with sustained macroalbuminuria. Furthermore, for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates, HRs in regressed individuals were comparable with those with sustained renal status at the achieved level (i.e. those who did not regress but remained at the most advanced level of albuminuria noted pre-baseline).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Progression of diabetic nephropathy confers an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and premature death. Notably, regression reduces the risk to the same level as for those who did not progress.

Effect of TET2 on the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy through activation of transforming growth factor β1 expression via DNA demethylation

AIMS

Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, the mechanism of its expression and activation induced by high glucose (HG) is still unclear. We mainly explored the role of ten-eleven translocation enzyme-2 (TET2) in regulating TGFβ1 expression in the process of DN.

MAIN METHODS

Human mesangial cells (HMCs) and db/db mice were used to analyze the biological effects of hyperglycemia both in vivo and in vitro. Gene expression levels, cell proliferation, protein recruitment levels to TGFβ1 regulatory region, DNA methylation statues and pathological changes in kidney were tested in different groups. Short hairpin RNA(shRNA) and oral inhibitor were used to knock down or inhibit TET2 expression.

KEY FINDINGS

Our study demonstrated that TET2 expression was increased in the renal cortex of db/db mice and in HMCs inducing by HG. We also found that TET2 binding was increased while DNA methylation of CpG islands was reduced in the TGFβ1 regulation region in HG, resulting in the increased expression level of TGFβ1 and cell phenotype transformation. More importantly, clinical research revealed that gradually decreased DNA methylation in the TGFβ1 regulatory region was also present in patients with diabetes and DN.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our work suggests that TET2 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of DN by activating TGFβ1 expression through demethylation of CpG islands in the TGFβ1 regulatory region. This may provide a potential new therapeutic target for DN.

Risk of Microangiopathy in Patients with Epilepsy under Long-term Antiepileptic Drug Therapy

Background

Long-term antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy is considered a risk factor of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, the duration of therapy contributes to acceleration of large-vessel atherosclerosis. Therefore, in this study, we tested the hypothesis that long-term AED therapy plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of microangiopathy in patients with epilepsy.

Methods

We recruited 120 patients with epilepsy (age, 18–60 years) and 40 healthy controls. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to measure the central macular thickness and diameters of the retinal artery and vein to evaluate atherosclerotic retinopathy; microalbumin and creatinine levels in urine were assessed to evaluate atherosclerotic nephropathy. In addition, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), lipid profiles, homocysteine, folate, uric acid, and body mass index were determined.

Results

The ratio of urine albumin to creatine and OCT findings showed that patients with epilepsy had higher abnormal microalbuminuria and narrowing retinal vein diameters, respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that increased triglyceride and hs-CRP levels might contribute to microalbuminuria. In addition, serum creatinine, duration of AED therapy, enzyme-inducing AED therapy, and duration of enzyme-inducing AED therapy were candidate risk factors for retinal vein narrowing.

Conclusion

Patients with epilepsy are at a higher risk for microangiopathy presented as retinopathy and nephropathy. Long-term AED therapy, particularly with enzyme-inducing AEDs; high triglyceride levels, and inflammatory processes play an important role in the development of microangiopathy in patients with epilepsy.

Kidney Biomarkers and Decline in eGFR in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Biomarkers may improve identification of individuals at risk of eGFR decline who may benefit from intervention or dialysis planning. However, available biomarkers remain incompletely validated for risk stratification and prediction modeling.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

We examined serum cystatin C, urinary kidney injury molecule-1 (uKIM-1), and urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (UNGAL) in 5367 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and recent acute coronary syndromes enrolled in the Examination of Cardiovascular Outcomes with Alogliptin versus Standard of Care (EXAMINE) trial. Baseline concentrations and 6-month changes in biomarkers were also evaluated. Cox proportional regression was used to assess associations with a 50% decrease in eGFR, stage 5 CKD (eGFR<15 ml/min per 1.73 m2), or dialysis.

RESULTS

eGFR decline occurred in 98 patients (1.8%) over a median of 1.5 years. All biomarkers individually were associated with higher risk of eGFR decline (P<0.001). However, when adjusting for baseline eGFR, proteinuria, and clinical factors, only baseline cystatin C (adjusted hazard ratio per 1 SD change, 1.66; 95% confidence interval, 1.41 to 1.96; P<0.001) and 6-month change in urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (adjusted hazard ratio per 1 SD change, 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.02 to 1.12; P=0.004) independently associated with CKD progression. A base model for predicting kidney function decline with nine standard risk factors had strong discriminative ability (C-statistic 0.93). The addition of baseline cystatin C improved discrimination (C-statistic 0.94), but it failed to reclassify risk categories of individuals with and without eGFR decline.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of cystatin C or biomarkers of tubular injury did not meaningfully improve the prediction of eGFR decline beyond common clinical factors and routine laboratory data in a large cohort of patients with type 2 diabetes and recent acute coronary syndrome.

PODCAST

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Intensive Diabetes Treatment and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Implications of the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications Study 30-Year Follow-up

Type 1 diabetes mellitus, an autoimmune disorder characterized by beta-cell destruction and absolute insulin deficiency, is associated with significantly increased cardiovascular disease risk but the mechanisms underlying this enhanced risk are unclear. Results of the pivotal Diabetes Control and Complications Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications study have shown that compared to conventional therapy, intensive glycemic control results in decreased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Evidence from this study also revealed contributions of blood pressure, renal disease, body weight, and lipids to cardiovascular disease in type 1 diabetes mellitus. Extrapolating from existing evidence, this article addresses clinical strategies to mitigate cardiovascular risks.

The beneficial effects of Zn on Akt-mediated insulin and cell survival signaling pathways in diabetes

Zinc is one of the essential trace elements and participates in numerous physiological processes. Abnormalities in zinc homeostasis often result in the pathogenesis of various chronic metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and its complications. Zinc has insulin-mimetic and anti-diabetic effects and deficiency has been shown to aggravate diabetes-induced oxidative stress and tissue injury in diabetic rodent models and human subjects with diabetes. Akt signaling pathway plays a central role in insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism and cell survival. Anti-diabetic effects of zinc are largely dependent on the activation of Akt signaling. Zn is also an inducer of metallothionein that plays important role in anti-oxidative stress and damage. However, the exact molecular mechanisms underlying zinc-induced activation of Akt signaling pathway remains to be elucidated. This review summarizes the recent advances in deciphering the possible mechanisms of zinc on Akt-mediated insulin and cell survival signaling pathways in diabetes conditions. Insights into the effects of zinc on epigenetic regulation and autophagy in diabetic nephropathy are also discussed in the latter part of this review.

Changes in Albuminuria and the Risk of Major Clinical Outcomes in Diabetes: Results From ADVANCE-ON

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association between 2-year changes in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and the risk of clinical outcomes in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed data from 8,766 participants in the Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease: Preterax and Diamicron MR Controlled Evaluation Post-Trial Observational Study (ADVANCE-ON). Change in UACR was calculated from UACR measurements 2 years apart, classified into three groups: decrease in UACR of ≥30%, minor change, and increase in UACR of ≥30%. By analyzing changes from baseline UACR groups, categorized into thirds, we repeated these analyses accounting for regression to the mean (RtM). The primary outcome was the composite of major macrovascular events, renal events, and all-cause mortality; secondary outcomes were these components. Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs).

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up of 7.7 years, 2,191 primary outcomes were observed. Increases in UACR over 2 years independently predicted a greater risk of the primary outcome (HR for ≥30% UACR increase vs. minor change: 1.26; 95% CI 1.13-1.41), whereas a decrease in UACR was not significantly associated with lower risk (HR 0.93; 95% CI 0.83-1.04). However, after allowing for RtM, the effect of "real" decrease in UACR on the primary outcome was found to be significant (HR 0.84; 95% CI 0.75-0.94), whereas the estimated effect on an increase was unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in UACR predicted changes in the risk of major clinical outcomes and mortality in type 2 diabetes, supporting the prognostic utility of monitoring albuminuria change over time.

Microalbuminuria besides to urinary enzymatic protein levels increase in Diabetic kidney disease with type II diabetics

Background: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a time progressive problem, give rise in uncontrolled Diabetics increasing risks for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and/or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The vulnerability to renal dysfunction manifested with sudden glomerular hypofiltration associated with micro-to macroalbuminuria passing to renal failure. So that, screening of specific enzymes shifts, or urinary albumin may predict onset diabetic nephropathy. Objective: The assessment of urinary alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminopeptidase (AAP), acid phosphatase (ACP) and microalbuminuria (MAU) for type II diabetic patients. Patients and Methods: In this study,120 type II diabetic patients were compared to 90 healthy volunteers of matched age and sex in Al-Leith General Hospital, Al-Leith Kidney Unit (AKU), Al-Leith, Makkah area, KSA in which random urine samples were collected for testing of MAU, ALP, AAP, ACP and Cr. Results: Mean values of measured biomarkers in patient group for MAU, ALP, AAP, ACP and Cr were 51.92 mg/I, 41.55 U/L, 20.17 U/L, 570.10 U/L and 2.92 mg/dl VS in control group were 12.59 mg/I, 8.84 U/L, 6.94 U/L, 385.87U/L and 1.07 mg/dl respectively. Additionally, there were statistically positive correlation between AAP with MAU and ALP; ACP with MAU, ALP and AAP; Cr level with MAU, ALP, AAP and ACP; on the other hand, there were positive significant correlation between duration of diabetes with all studied markers. Conclusion: Using of MAU in addition to other urinary enzymes could be beneficial non-invasive indicators for renal deterioration in type II diabetics.

Retinopathy, Neuropathy, and Subsequent Cardiovascular Events in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Acute Coronary Syndrome in the ELIXA: The Importance of Disease Duration

INTRODUCTION

We investigated the association of diabetic retinopathy and neuropathy with increased risk of recurrent cardiovascular (CV) events in 6068 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and recent acute coronary syndrome (ACS) enrolled in the Evaluation of Lixisenatide in Acute Coronary Syndrome (ELIXA).

METHODS

History of retinopathy and neuropathy as well as duration of T2DM were self-reported at screening. Proportional hazards regression models were used to assess relationships between retinopathy, neuropathy, and recurrent CV events.

RESULTS

At screening, retinopathy and neuropathy were reported in 10.7% and 17.5% of patients, respectively, while 5.7% reported both. When adjusted for randomized treatment only, both retinopathy and neuropathy were associated with a primary composite outcome (CV death, nonfatal MI, stroke, or hospitalization for unstable angina) (retinopathy: HR 1.44, 95% CI 1.19-1.75; neuropathy: HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.12-1.57), CV composite (CV death, nonfatal MI, stroke, hospitalization for heart failure (HF)) (retinopathy: HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.31-1.88; neuropathy: HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.19-1.62), myocardial infarction (retinopathy: HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.08-1.76; neuropathy: HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.02-1.54), HF hospitalization (retinopathy: HR 2.03, 95% CI 1.48-2.78; neuropathy: HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.30-2.27), and all-cause mortality (retinopathy: HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.28-2.12; neuropathy: HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.14-1.78). When included in the same model, and adjusted for T2DM duration, there were no independent associations of either with CV outcomes, while T2DM duration remained strongly associated with all outcomes. Addition of demographic characteristics and CV risk factors did not further alter these relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with T2DM and recent ACS, a history of retinopathy and/or neuropathy and longer T2DM duration could be considered clinical markers for high risk of recurrent CV events. This trial is registered with the ELIXA (Evaluation of Lixisenatide in Acute Coronary Syndrome), ClinicalTrials.gov registration number NCT01147250.

Diagnosis of diabetic kidney disease: state of the art and future perspective

Approximately 20% to 40% of patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus develop diabetic kidney disease. This is a clinical syndrome characterized by persistent albuminuria (> 300 mg/24 h, or > 300 mg/g creatinine), a relentless decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), raised arterial blood pressure, and enhanced cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. There is a characteristic histopathology. In classical diabetic nephropathy, the first clinical sign is moderately increased urine albumin excretion (microalbuminuria: 30-300 mg/24 h, or 30-300 mg/g creatinine; albuminuria grade A2). Untreated microalbuminuria will gradually worsen, reaching clinical proteinuria or severely increased albuminuria (albuminuria grade A3) over 5 to 15 years. The GFR then begins to decline, and without treatment, end-stage renal failure is likely to result in 5 to 7 years. Although albuminuria is the first sign of diabetic nephropathy, the first symptom is usually peripheral edema, which occurs at a very late stage. Regular, systematic screening for diabetic kidney disease is needed in order to identify patients at risk of or with presymptomatic diabetic kidney disease. Annual monitoring of urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, estimated GFR, and blood pressure is recommended. Several new biomarkers or profiles of biomarkers have been investigated to improve prognostic and diagnostic precision, but none have yet been implemented in routine clinical care. In the future such techniques may pave the way for personalized treatment.

Changes in Albuminuria and Subsequent Risk of Incident Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Albuminuria is a robust predictor of CKD progression. However, little is known about the associations of changes in albuminuria with the risk of kidney events outside the settings of clinical trials.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

In a nationwide cohort of 56,946 United States veterans with an eGFR≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m2, we examined the associations of 1-year fold changes in albuminuria with subsequent incident CKD (>25% decrease in eGFR reaching <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2) and rapid eGFR decline (eGFR slope <-5 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year) assessed using Cox models and logistic regression, respectively, with adjustment for confounders.

RESULTS

The mean age was 64 (SD, 10) years old; 97% were men, and 91% were diabetic. There was a nearly linear association between 1-year fold changes in albuminuria and incident CKD. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of incident CKD associated with more than twofold decrease, 1.25- to twofold decrease, 1.25- to twofold increase, and more than twofold increase (versus <1.25-fold decrease to <1.25-fold increase) in albuminuria were 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.77 to 0.89), 0.93 (95% confidence interval, 0.86 to 1.00), 1.12 (95% confidence interval, 1.05 to 1.20), and 1.29 (95% confidence interval, 1.21 to 1.38), respectively. Qualitatively similar associations were present for rapid eGFR decline (adjusted odds ratios; 95% confidence intervals for corresponding albuminuria changes: adjusted odds ratio, 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.78 to 0.94; adjusted odds ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.89 to 1.07; adjusted odds ratio, 1.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.08 to 1.29; and adjusted odds ratio, 1.67; 95% confidence interval, 1.54 and 1.81, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Relative changes in albuminuria over a 1-year interval were linearly associated with subsequent risk of kidney outcomes. Additional studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of the observed associations and test whether active interventions to lower elevated albuminuria can improve kidney outcomes.

Long-term intra-individual variability of albuminuria in type 2 diabetes mellitus: implications for categorization of albumin excretion rate

BACKGROUND

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the Western world. Early and accurate identification of DKD offers the best chance of slowing the progression of kidney disease. An important method for evaluating risk of progressive DKD is abnormal albumin excretion rate (AER). Due to the high variability in AER, most guidelines recommend the use of more than or equal to two out of three AER measurements within a 3- to 6-month period to categorise AER. There are recognised limitations of using AER as a marker of DKD because one quarter of patients with type 2 diabetes may develop kidney disease without an increase in albuminuria and spontaneous regression of albuminuria occurs frequently. Nevertheless, it is important to investigate the long-term intra-individual variability of AER in participants with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Consecutive AER measurements (median 19 per subject) were performed in 497 participants with type 2 diabetes from 1999 to 2012 (mean follow-up 7.9 ± 3 years). Baseline clinical characteristics were collected to determine associations with AER variability. Participants were categorised as having normo-, micro- or macroalbuminuria according to their initial three AER measurements. Participants were then categorised into four patterns of AER trajectories: persistent, intermittent, progressing and regressing. Coefficients of variation were used to measure intra-individual AER variability.

RESULTS

The median coefficient of variation of AER was 53.3%, 76.0% and 67.0% for subjects with normo-, micro- or macroalbuminuria at baseline. The coefficient of variation of AER was 37.7%, 66% and 94.8% for subjects with persistent, intermittent and progressing normoalbuminuria; 43%, 70.6%, 86.1% and 82.3% for subjects with persistent, intermittent, progressing and regressing microalbuminuria; and 55.2%, 67% and 82.4% for subjects with persistent, intermittent and regressing macroalbuminuria, respectively.

CONCLUSION

High long-term variability of AER suggests that two out of three AER measurements may not always be adequate for the optimal categorisation and prediction of AER.

ACE Inhibitors and Statins in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Among adolescents with type 1 diabetes, rapid increases in albumin excretion during puberty precede the development of microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria, long-term risk factors for renal and cardiovascular disease. We hypothesized that adolescents with high levels of albumin excretion might benefit from angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and statins, drugs that have not been fully evaluated in adolescents.

METHODS

We screened 4407 adolescents with type 1 diabetes between the ages of 10 and 16 years of age and identified 1287 with values in the upper third of the albumin-to-creatinine ratios; 443 were randomly assigned in a placebo-controlled trial of an ACE inhibitor and a statin with the use of a 2-by-2 factorial design minimizing differences in baseline characteristics such as age, sex, and duration of diabetes. The primary outcome for both interventions was the change in albumin excretion, assessed according to the albumin-to-creatinine ratio calculated from three early-morning urine samples obtained every 6 months over 2 to 4 years, and expressed as the area under the curve. Key secondary outcomes included the development of microalbuminuria, progression of retinopathy, changes in the glomerular filtration rate, lipid levels, and measures of cardiovascular risk (carotid intima-media thickness and levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and asymmetric dimethylarginine).

RESULTS

The primary outcome was not affected by ACE inhibitor therapy, statin therapy, or the combination of the two. The use of an ACE inhibitor was associated with a lower incidence of microalbuminuria than the use of placebo; in the context of negative findings for the primary outcome and statistical analysis plan, this lower incidence was not considered significant (hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.35 to 0.94). Statin use resulted in significant reductions in total, low-density lipoprotein, and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, in triglyceride levels, and in the ratio of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A1, whereas neither drug had significant effects on carotid intima-media thickness, other cardiovascular markers, the glomerular filtration rate, or progression of retinopathy. Overall adherence to the drug regimen was 75%, and serious adverse events were similar across the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of an ACE inhibitor and a statin did not change the albumin-to-creatinine ratio over time. (Funded by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and others; AdDIT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01581476 .).

Dipstick proteinuria and risk of myocardial infarction and all-cause mortality in diabetes or pre-diabetes: a population-based cohort study

To evaluate the association between dipstick proteinuria and myocardial infarction (MI) or all-cause mortality, a cohort study was conducted among 16,573 general Chinese population with diabetes or pre-diabetes, which were defined as self-reported history of diabetes or fasting blood glucose ≥5.6 mmol/L or under blood glucose lowering therapy. Proteinuria was detected biennially during 2006–2013 by dipstick test. MI and all-cause mortality were recorded through the end of 2014. Mean age (standard deviation) of study participants was 51.16 (10.63) years, with 82.24% of male. During a median follow-up of 8.03 years, 211 MI and 403 all-cause mortality occurred. Multivariable Cox regression revealed occasional or persistent detection of trace or higher in proteinuria increased the risk of all-cause mortality, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.42 (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.10, 1.83) and 2.23 (95% CI: 1.66, 3.01), respectively, compared to sustained negative in proteinuria. A time-dependent analysis also revealed the association between degree of proteinuria and all-cause mortality, with HRs of 1.80 (95% CI: 1.31, 2.48) for trace and 3.34 (95% CI: 2.40, 4.65) for one plus or higher in proteinuria, compared to negative. The associations regarding MI lost statistical significance after multivariable adjustment. In conclusion, dipstick proteinuria was associated with an increased risk of MI and all-cause mortality among a general population with diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Strategies to improve monitoring disease progression, assessing cardiovascular risk, and defining prognostic biomarkers in chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global public health problem with significant gaps in research, care, and policy. In order to mitigate the risks and adverse effects of CKD, the International Society of Nephrology has created a cohesive set of activities to improve the global outcomes of people living with CKD. Improving monitoring of renal disease progression can be done by screening and monitoring albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate in primary care. Consensus on how many times and how often albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate are measured should be defined. Meaningful changes in both renal biomarkers should be determined in order to ascertain what is clinically relevant. Increasing social awareness of CKD and partnering with the technological community may be ways to engage patients. Furthermore, improving the prediction of cardiovascular events in patients with CKD can be achieved by including the renal risk markers albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate in cardiovascular risk algorithms and by encouraging uptake of assessing cardiovascular risk by general practitioners and nephrologists. Finally, examining ways to further validate and implement novel biomarkers for CKD will help mitigate the global problem of CKD. The more frequent use of renal biopsy will facilitate further knowledge into the underlying etiologies of CKD and help put new biomarkers into biological context. Real-world assessments of these biomarkers in existing cohorts is important, as well as obtaining regulatory approval to use these biomarkers in clinical practice. Collaborations among academia, physician and patient groups, industry, payer organizations, and regulatory authorities will help improve the global outcomes of people living with CKD.

Effects of empagliflozin on the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease: an exploratory analysis from the EMPA-REG OUTCOME randomised, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In a pooled analysis of short-term trials, short-term treatment with the sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor empagliflozin reduced albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes and prevalent albuminuria. In this exploratory analysis of the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial, we report the short-term and long-term effects of empagliflozin on albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, according to patients' baseline albuminuria status.

METHODS

In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial at 590 sites in 42 countries, we randomly assigned patients aged 18 years and older with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease (1:1:1) to empagliflozin 10 mg, empagliflozin 25 mg, or placebo in addition to standard of care until at least 691 patients experienced an adjudicated event included in the primary outcome. We did the randomisation with a computer-generated random-sequence and interactive voice-response and web-response system, stratified by HbA_1c, BMI, region, and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Patients, investigators, and individuals involved in analysis of trial data were masked to treatment assignment. The primary and secondary efficacy and safety endpoints of this trial have been reported previously. Here, we report urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) data for the pooled empagliflozin group versus placebo according to albuminuria status at baseline (normoalbuminuria: UACR <30 mg/g; microalbuminuria: UACR ≥30 to ≤300 mg/g; and macroalbuminuria: UACR >300 mg/g). We did the analysis with mixed-model repeated measures including prespecified and post-hoc tests. This study is completed and registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01131676.

FINDINGS

Between Sept 1, 2010, and April 22, 2013, we randomly assigned 7028 patients to treatment groups and 7020 patients received treatment. At baseline, we had UACR data for 6953 patients: 4171 (59% of treated patients; 1382 assigned to placebo and 2789 assigned to empagliflozin) had normoalbuminuria, 2013 (29%; 675 assigned to placebo and 1338 assigned to empagliflozin) had microalbuminuria, and 769 (11%; 260 assigned to placebo and 509 assigned to empagliflozin) had macroalbuminuria. Median treatment duration was 2·6 years (IQR 2·0-3·4; 136 weeks) and median observation time was 3·1 years (2·2-3·6; 164 weeks). After short-term treatment at week 12, the placebo-adjusted geometric mean ratio of UACR change from baseline with empagliflozin was -7% (95% CI -12 to -2; p=0·013) in patients with normoalbuminuria, -25% (-31 to -19; p<0·0001) in patients with microalbuminuria, and -32% (-41 to -23; p<0·0001) in patients with macroalbuminuria. The reductions in UACR were maintained with empagliflozin in all three groups compared with placebo during long-term treatment when measured at 164 weeks. At follow-up, after cessation of treatment for a median of 34 or 35 days, UACR was lower in the empagliflozin versus placebo group in those with baseline microalbuminuria (placebo-corrected adjusted geometric mean ratio of relative change from baseline with empagliflozin: -22%, 95% CI -32 to -11; p=0·0003) or macroalbuminuria (-29%, -44 to -10; p=0·0048), but not for patients with baseline normoalbuminuria (1%, -8 to 10; p=0·8911). Patients treated with empagliflozin were more likely to experience a sustained improvement from microalbuminuria to normoalbuminuria (hazard ratio [HR] 1·43, 95% CI 1·22 to 1·67; p<0·0001) or from macroalbuminuria to microalbuminuria or normoalbuminuria (HR 1·82, 1·40 to 2·37; p<0·0001), and less likely to experience a sustained deterioration from normoalbuminuria to microalbuminuria or macroalbuminuria (HR 0·84, 0·74 to 0·95; p=0·0077). The proportions of patients with any adverse events, serious adverse events, and adverse events leading to discontinuation increased with worsening UACR status at baseline, but were similar between treatment groups. The proportion of patients with genital infections was greater with empagliflozin than placebo in all subgroups by UACR status.

INTERPRETATION

These results support short-term and long-term benefits of empagliflozin on urinary albumin excretion, irrespective of patients' albuminuria status at baseline.

FUNDING

Boehringer Ingelheim & Eli Lilly and Company Diabetes Alliance.

SGLT-2 Inhibitors: Is There a Role in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Management?

Objective: The purpose of this review is to identify and evaluate disease management of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) who were treated with a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor as an adjunct to insulin therapy. Data Sources: A PubMed (1969 to March 2017) and Ovid (1946 to March 2017) search was performed for articles published utilizing the following MESH terms: canagliflozin, empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, type 1 diabetes mellitus, insulin dependent diabetes, insulin, sodium-glucose transporter 2. There were no limitations placed on publication type. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All English-language articles were evaluated for association of SGLT-2 inhibitors and type 1 diabetes. Further studies were identified by review of pertinent manuscript bibliographies. Data Synthesis: All 3 SGLT-2 inhibitors, when combined with insulin, resulted in an overall reduction of hemoglobin A1C (up to 0.49%), lower total daily insulin doses, and a reduction in weight (up to 2.7 kg). The combination therapy of insulin and SGLT-2 inhibitors also resulted in a lower incidence of hypoglycemia. Study duration varied from 2 to 18 weeks. Conclusion: A review of the identified literature indicated that there is a potential role for the combination of SGLT-2 inhibitors with insulin in T1DM for improving glycemic control without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. The short duration and small sample sizes limit the ability to fully evaluate the incidences of diabetic ketoacidosis and urogenital infections. The risks associated with this combination of medications require further evaluation.

Cardiovascular complications of type 1 diabetes: update on the renal link

AIMS

Despite recent findings of increased life expectancy among individuals with type 1 diabetes, mortality remains greatly increased compared to the general population. As this is largely the result of cardiovascular and renal complications, we aimed to review recent findings surrounding these diseases in type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

We reviewed published findings concerning the cardiovascular complications of type 1 diabetes, with a particular focus on links with renal disease.

RESULTS

The cardiovascular and renal complications of type 1 diabetes share many features including insulin resistance, oxidative damage, and genetic associations with the Haptoglobin genotype, and both are strongly affected by glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

Although current knowledge on predictors of type 1 diabetes cardiovascular and renal complications has increased, further investigation is required to understand the mechanisms leading to cardio-renal complications in this population.

Comparison of HbA1c detection in whole blood and dried blood spots using an automated ion-exchange HPLC system

AIM

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a widely recognized analyte for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes. Dried blood spot (DBS) constitutes a useful alternative to blood collection by venipuncture. Analytical and clinical validation of DBS use is, however, necessary before implementation. Results/methodology: HbA1c levels from whole blood or DBS from a cohort patients with diabetes were compared. DBS specimens were stable at ambient temperature. HbA1c detection on DBS was accurate, robust, and the correlation and agreement with whole blood values was excellent.

CONCLUSION

This study provides for the first time a complete method comparison and validation under the ISO15189 guideline using an automated HPLC system. This approach constitutes, therefore, a useful tool for diagnosing diabetes.