Continuous glucose monitoring for the routine care of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Although continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are now considered the standard of care for people with type 1 diabetes mellitus, the uptake among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been slower and is focused on those receiving intensive insulin therapy. However, increasing evidence now supports the inclusion of CGM in the routine care of people with T2DM who are on basal insulin-only regimens or are managed with other medications. Expanding CGM to these groups could minimize hypoglycaemia while allowing efficient adaptation and escalation of therapies. Increasing evidence from randomized controlled trials and observational studies indicates that CGM is of clinical value in people with T2DM on non-intensive treatment regimens. If further studies confirm this finding, CGM could soon become a part of routine care for T2DM. In this Perspective we explore the potential benefits of widening the application of CGM in T2DM, along with the challenges that must be overcome for the evidence-based benefits of this technology to be delivered for all people with T2DM.

Short, frequent, light-intensity walking activity improves postprandial vascular-inflammatory biomarkers in people with type 1 diabetes: The SIT-LESS randomized controlled trial

AIM

To examine the effect of interrupting prolonged sitting with short, frequent, light-intensity activity on postprandial cardiovascular markers in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a randomized crossover trial, 32 adults with T1D (mean ± SD age 28 ± 5 years, glycated haemoglobin 67.9 ± 12.6 mmol/mol, 17 women) completed two 7-h laboratory visits separated by >7 days. Participants either remained seated for 7 h (SIT) or interrupted sitting with 3-min bouts of self-paced walking at 30-min intervals commencing 1 h after each meal (SIT-LESS). Physical activity, insulin regimen, experimental start times, and meal consumption were standardized during each arm. Plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 and fibrinogen were sampled at baseline, 3.5 and 7 h, and assessed for within- and between-group effects using a repeated measures ANOVA. The estimated glucose disposal rate was used to determine the insulin resistance status.

RESULTS

Vascular-inflammatory parameters were comparable between SIT and SIT-LESS at baseline (p > .05). TNF-α, IL-1β, PAI-1 and fibrinogen increased over time under SIT, whereas these rises were attenuated under SIT-LESS (p < .001). Specifically, over the 7 h under SIT, postprandial increases were detected in TNF-α, IL-1β, PAI-1 and fibrinogen (+67%, +49%, +49% and +62%, respectively; p < .001 for all). Conversely, the SIT-LESS group showed no change in IL-1β (-9%; p > .50), whereas reductions were observed in TNF-α, PAI-1 and fibrinogen (-22%, -42% and -44%, respectively; p < .001 for all). The intervention showed enhanced effects in insulin-resistant individuals with T1D.

CONCLUSIONS

Interrupting prolonged sitting with light-intensity activity ameliorates postprandial increases in vascular-inflammatory markers in T1D.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was prospectively registered (ISRCTN13641847).

P2Y12 Inhibition in Patients Requiring Oral Anticoagulation after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: The SWAP-AC-2 Study

BACKGROUND

Among patients treated with a novel oral anticoagulant (NOAC) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), combination therapy with clopidogrel (i.e., known as dual antithrombotic therapy [DAT]) is the treatment of choice. However, there are concerns for individuals with impaired response to clopidogrel.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the pharmacodynamic (PD) effects of clopidogrel vs. low-dose ticagrelor in patients with impaired clopidogrel response assessed by the ABCD-GENE score.

METHODS

This was a prospective, randomized PD study of NOAC-treated patients undergoing PCI. Patients with an ABCD-GENE score ≥10 (n=39), defined as having impaired clopidogrel response, were randomized to low-dose ticagrelor (n=20; 60 mg/bid) or clopidogrel (n=19; 75 mg/qd). Patients with an ABCD-GENE<10 (n=42) were treated with clopidogrel (75 mg/qd; control cohort). PD assessments at baseline and 30 days post-randomization (trough and peak) were performed to assess P2Y12 signaling [VerifyNow P2Y12 reaction units (PRU), light transmittance aggregometry (LTA), and vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP)]; makers of thrombosis not specific to P2Y12 signaling were also assessed. The primary endpoint was PRU (trough levels) at 30 days.

RESULTS

At 30 days, PRU levels were reduced with ticagrelor-based DAT compared with clopidogrel-based DAT at trough (23.0 [3.0-46.0] vs. 154.5 [77.5-183.0]; p<0.001) and peak (6.0 [4.0-14.0] vs. 129.0 [66.0-171.0]; p<0.001). Trough PRU levels in the control arm (104.0 [35.0-167.0]) were higher than ticagrelor-based DAT (p=0.005) and numerically lower than clopidogrel-based DAT (p=0.234). Results were consistent by LTA and VASP. Markers measuring other pathways leading to thrombus formation were largely unaffected.

CONCLUSIONS

In NOAC-treated patients undergoing PCI with an ABCD-gene score ≥10, ticagrelor-based DAT using a 60 mg bid regimen reduced platelet P2Y12 reactivity compared to clopidogrel-based DAT.

Variation in the relationship between fasting glucose and HbA1c: implications for the diagnosis of diabetes in different age and ethnic groups

INTRODUCTION

Identify non-glycemic factors affecting the relationship between fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), in order to refine diabetes diagnostic criteria.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Relationship between FPG-HbA1c was assessed in 12 531 individuals from 2001 to 2018 US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Using a recently described method, FPG and HbA1c were used to calculate apparent glycation ratio (AGR) of red blood cells for different subgroups based on age, race, and gender.

RESULTS

At an FPG of 7 mmol/L, black individuals had a higher HbA1c (p<0.001, mean: 50.2 mmol/mol, 95% CI (49.8 to 50.4)) compared with white individuals (47.4 mmol/mol (47.2 to 47.5)). This corresponds to NGSP (National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program) units of 6.7% and 6.5% for black versus white individuals, respectively. Similarly, individuals under 21 years had lower HbA1c (p<0.001, 47.9 mmol/mol (47.7 to 48.1), 6.5%) compared with those over 50 years (48.3 mmol/mol (48.2 to 48.5), 6.6%). Differences were also observed between women (p<0.001, 49.2 mmol/mol (49.1 to 49.3), 6.7%) and men (47.0 mmol/mol (46.8 to 47.1), 6.5%). Of note, the difference in HbA1c at FPG of 7 mmol/L in black females over 50 and white males under 21 years was 5 mmol/mol (0.46%). AGR differences according to race (p<0.001), age (p<0.001), and gender (p<0.001) explained altered glucose-HbA1c relationship in the analyzed groups.

CONCLUSIONS

FPG-HbA1c relationship is affected by non-glycemic factors leading to incorrect diagnosis of diabetes in some individuals and ethnic groups. Assessment of AGR helps understand individual-specific relationship between glucose levels and HbA1c, which has the potential to more accurately diagnose and manage diabetes.

Is It Time to Move Beyond TIR to TITR? Real-World Data from Over 20,000 Users of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

The growing use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been supported by expert consensus and clinical guidelines on glycemic management in diabetes with time in range (TIR 70-180 mg/dL) representing a key CGM-derived glucose metric. Time in tight range (TITR) has also been proposed for clinical use, spanning largely normal glucose levels of 70-140 mg/dL. However, keeping such narrow glucose ranges can be challenging, and understanding the factors modulating TITR can help achieve these tight glycemic targets. Our real-life study aimed to evaluate the relationship between average glucose (AG) and TIR/TITR in a large cohort (n = 22,006) of CGM users, divided into four groups: self-identified as having type 1 diabetes (T1D) treated with insulin using multiple daily injections (MDI) or pumps; type 2 diabetes (T2D) on MDI or insulin pumps; T2D on basal insulin only; and T2D not on insulin treatment. The T2D groups, regardless of treatment type, displayed the highest TIR and TITR values, associated with lowest glycemic variability measured as glucose coefficient of variation (CV; 23-30%). The T1D group showed the lowest TIR and TITR, associated with the highest CVs (36-38%). Overall, higher CV was associated with lower TIR and TITR for AG values below 180 and 140 mg/dL, respectively, with the reverse holding true for AG values above these thresholds. The discordance between AG and TIR/TITR was less pronounced in T2D compared with T1D, attributed to lower CV in the former group. It was also observed that TITR has advantages over TIR for assessing glycemia status and progress toward more stringent A1C, particularly when approaching normal glucose levels. The data detail how CV affects the AG relationship with TIR/TITR, which has implications for CGM interpretation. In many instances TITR, rather than TIR, may be preferable to employ once AG falls below 140 mg/dL and near-normal glucose levels are required clinically.

Time in Range, Time in Tight Range, and Average Glucose Relationships Are Modulated by Glycemic Variability: Identification of a Glucose Distribution Model Connecting Glycemic Parameters Using Real-World Data

Background: Time in range (TIR), time in tight range (TITR), and average glucose (AG) are used to adjust glycemic therapies in diabetes. However, TIR/TITR and AG can show a disconnect, which may create management difficulties. We aimed to understand the factors influencing the relationships between these glycemic markers. Materials and Methods: Real-world glucose data were collected from self-identified diabetes type 1 and type 2 diabetes (T1D and T2D) individuals using flash continuous glucose monitoring (FCGM). The effects of glycemic variability, assessed as glucose coefficient of variation (CV), on the relationship between AG and TIR/TITR were investigated together with the best-fit glucose distribution model that addresses these relationships. Results: Of 29,164 FCGM users (16,367 T1D, 11,061 T2D, and 1736 others), 38,259 glucose readings/individual were available. Comparing low and high CV tertiles, TIR at AG of 150 mg/dL varied from 80% ± 5.6% to 62% ± 6.8%, respectively (P < 0.001), while TITR at AG of 130 mg/dL varied from 65% ± 7.5% to 49% ± 7.0%, respectively (P < 0.001). In contrast, higher CV was associated with increased TIR and TITR at AG levels outside the upper limit of these ranges. Gamma distribution was superior to six other models at explaining AG and TIR/TITR interactions and demonstrated nonlinear interplay between these metrics. Conclusions: The gamma model accurately predicts interactions between CGM-derived glycemic metrics and reveals that glycemic variability can significantly influence the relationship between AG and TIR with opposing effects according to AG levels. Our findings potentially help with clinical diabetes management, particularly when AG and TIR appear mismatched.

The impact of obstructive sleep apnea treatment on microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes: a feasibility randomized controlled trial

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with an increased risk of diabetes-related complications. Hence, it is plausible that Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) could have a favorable impact on these complications. To assess the feasibility of conducting a randomized control trial (RCT) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and OSA over 2 years.

METHODS

An open-label multicenter feasibility RCT of CPAP vs no CPAP in patients with T2D and OSA. Patients with resting oxygen saturation <90%, central apnea index >15/hour or Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) ≥11 were excluded. OSA was diagnosed using a multichannel portable device (ApneaLink Air, ResMed). The primary outcome measures were related to feasibility, and the secondary outcomes were changes in various clinical and biochemical parameters related to diabetes outcomes.

RESULTS

Eighty-three (40 CPAP vs 43 no CPAP) patients were randomized, with a median (IQR) follow-up of 645 [545, 861] days. CPAP compliance was inadequate, with a median usage of approximately 3.5 hours/night. Early CPAP use predicted longer-term compliance. The adjusted analysis showed a possible favorable association between being randomized to CPAP and several diabetes-related endpoints (chronic kidney disease (CKD), neuropathy, and quality of life (QoL)).

CONCLUSIONS

It was feasible to recruit, randomize, and achieve a high follow-up rate over 2 years in patients with OSA and T2D. CPAP compliance might improve by a run-in period before randomization. A full RCT is necessary to assess the observed favorable association between CPAP and CKD, neuropathy, and QoL in patients with T2D.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registry: ISRCTN; URL: https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN12361838; Title: The impact of sleep disorders in patients with type 2 diabetes; Identifier: ISRCTN12361838.

Plasma levels of mannan-binding lectin-associated serine proteases are increased in type 1 diabetes patients with insulin resistance

Activation of the lectin pathway of the complement system, as demonstrated by elevated levels of mannan-binding lectin proteins (MBL), contributes to vascular pathology in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Vascular complications are greatest in T1D individuals with concomitant insulin resistance (IR), however, whether IR amplifies activiation of the lectin pathway in T1D is unknown. We pooled pretreatment data from two RCTs and performed a cross-sectional analysis on 46 T1D individuals. We employed estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), a validated IR surrogate with cut-points of: <5.1, 5.1-8.7, and > 8.7 mg/kg/min to determine IR status, with lower eGDR values conferring higher degrees of IR. Plasma levels of MBL-associated proteases (MASP-1, MASP-2, and MASP-3) and their regulatory protein MAp44 were compared among eGDR classifications. In a subset of 14 individuals, we assessed change in MASPs and MAp44 following improvement in IR. We found that MASP-1, MASP-2, MASP-3, and MAp44 levels increased in a stepwise fashion across eGDR thresholds with elevated MASPs and MAp44 levels conferring greater degrees of IR. In a subset of 14 patients, improvement in IR was associated with significant reductions in MASPs, but not MAp44, levels. In conclusion, IR in T1D amplifies levels of MASP-1/2/3 and their regulator MAp44, and improvement of IR normalizes MASP-1/2/3 levels. Given that elevated levels of these proteins contribute to vascular pathology, amplification of the lectin pathway of the complement system may offer mechanistic insight into the relationship between IR and vascular complications in T1D.

Efficacy and Safety of Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Intermittently Scanned Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Interventional Evidence

BACKGROUND

Traditional diabetes self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) involves inconvenient finger pricks. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and intermittently scanned CGM (isCGM) systems offer CGM, enhancing type 2 diabetes (T2D) management with convenient, comprehensive data.

PURPOSE

To assess the benefits and potential harms of CGM and isCGM compared with usual care or SMBG in individuals with T2D.

DATA SOURCES

We conducted a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and bibliographies up to August 2023.

STUDY SELECTION

We analyzed studies meeting these criteria: randomized controlled trials (RCT) with comparison of at least two interventions for ≥8 weeks in T2D patients, including CGM in real-time/retrospective mode, short-/long-term CGM, isCGM, and SMBG, reporting glycemic and relevant data.

DATA EXTRACTION

We used a standardized data collection form, extracting details including author, year, study design, baseline characteristics, intervention, and outcomes.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We included 26 RCTs (17 CGM and 9 isCGM) involving 2,783 patients with T2D (CGM 632 vs. usual care/SMBG 514 and isCGM 871 vs. usual care/SMBG 766). CGM reduced HbA1c (mean difference -0.19% [95% CI -0.34, -0.04]) and glycemic medication effect score (-0.67 [-1.20 to -0.13]), reduced user satisfaction (-0.54 [-0.98, -0.11]), and increased the risk of adverse events (relative risk [RR] 1.22 [95% CI 1.01, 1.47]). isCGM reduced HbA1c by -0.31% (-0.46, -0.17), increased user satisfaction (0.44 [0.29, 0.59]), improved CGM metrics, and increased the risk of adverse events (RR 1.30 [0.05, 1.62]). Neither CGM nor isCGM had a significant impact on body composition, blood pressure, or lipid levels.

LIMITATIONS

Limitations include small samples, single-study outcomes, population variations, and uncertainty for younger adults. Additionally, inclusion of <10 studies for most end points restricted comprehensive analysis, and technological advancements over time need to be considered.

CONCLUSIONS

Both CGM and isCGM demonstrated a reduction in HbA1c levels in individuals with T2D, and unlike CGM, isCGM use was associated with improved user satisfaction. The impact of these devices on body composition, blood pressure, and lipid levels remains unclear, while both CGM and isCGM use were associated with increased risk of adverse events.

Interrupting prolonged sitting with frequent short bouts of light-intensity activity in people with type 1 diabetes improves glycaemic control without increasing hypoglycaemia: The SIT-LESS randomised controlled trial

AIM

To examine the impact of interrupting prolonged sitting with frequent short bouts of light-intensity activity on glycaemic control in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 32 inactive adults with T1D [aged 27.9 ± 4.7 years, 15 men, diabetes duration 16.0 ± 6.9 years and glycated haemoglobin 8.4 ± 1.4% (68 ± 2.3 mmol/mol)] underwent two 7-h experimental conditions in a randomised crossover fashion with >7-day washout consisting of: uninterrupted sitting (SIT), or, interrupted sitting with 3-min bouts of self-paced walking at 30-min intervals (SIT-LESS). Standardised mixed-macronutrient meals were administered 3.5 h apart during each condition. Blinded continuous glucose monitoring captured interstitial glucose responses during the 7-h experimental period and for a further 48-h under free-living conditions.

RESULTS

SIT-LESS reduced total mean glucose (SIT 8.2 ± 2.6 vs. SIT-LESS 6.9 ± 1.7 mmol/L, p = .001) and increased time in range (3.9-10.0 mmol/L) by 13.7% (SIT 71.5 ± 9.5 vs. SIT-LESS 85.1 ± 7.1%, p = .002). Hyperglycaemia (>10.0 mmol/L) was reduced by 15.0% under SIT-LESS (SIT 24.2 ± 10.8 vs. SIT-LESS 9.2 ± 6.4%, p = .002), whereas hypoglycaemia exposure (<3.9 mmol/L) (SIT 4.6 ± 3.0 vs. SIT-LESS 6.0 ± 6.0%, p = .583) was comparable across conditions. SIT-LESS reduced glycaemic variability (coefficient of variation %) by 7.8% across the observation window (p = .021). These findings were consistent when assessing discrete time periods, with SIT-LESS improving experimental and free-living postprandial, whole-day and night-time glycaemic outcomes (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Interrupting prolonged sitting with frequent short bouts of light-intensity activity improves acute postprandial and 48-h glycaemia in adults with T1D. This pragmatic strategy is an efficacious approach to reducing sedentariness and increasing physical activity levels without increasing risk of hypoglycaemia in T1D.

Zn2+ Differentially Influences the Neutralisation of Heparins by HRG, Fibrinogen, and Fibronectin

For coagulation to be initiated, anticoagulant glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) such as heparins need to be neutralised to allow fibrin clot formation. Platelet activation triggers the release of several proteins that bind GAGs, including histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG), fibrinogen, and fibronectin. Zn2+ ions are also released and have been shown to enhance the binding of HRG to heparins of a high molecular weight (HMWH) but not to those of low molecular weight (LMWH). The effect of Zn2+ on fibrinogen and fibronectin binding to GAGs is unknown. Here, chromogenic assays were used to measure the anti-factor Xa and anti-thrombin activities of heparins of different molecular weights and to assess the effects of HRG, fibrinogen, fibronectin, and Zn2+. Surface plasmon resonance was also used to examine the influence of Zn2+ on the binding of fibrinogen to heparins of different molecular weights. Zn2+ had no effect on the neutralisation of anti-factor Xa (FXa) or anti-thrombin activities of heparin by fibronectin, whereas it enhanced the neutralisation of unfractionated heparin (UFH) and HMWH by both fibrinogen and HRG. Zn2+ also increased neutralisation of the anti-FXa activity of LMWH by fibrinogen but not HRG. SPR showed that Zn2+ increased fibrinogen binding to both UFH and LMWH in a concentration-dependent manner. The presented results reveal that an increase in Zn2+ concentration has differential effects upon anticoagulant GAG neutralisation by HRG and fibrinogen, with implications for modulating anti-coagulant activity in plasma.

Progression of insulin resistance in individuals with type 1 diabetes: A retrospective longitudinal study on individuals from Thailand

AIMS

To investigate temporal changes in glycaemic control and weight contributing to insulin resistance (IR), in Thai individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Longitudinal data of 69 individuals with T1D were retrospectively collected over a median follow-up of 7.2 years. The estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), a marker of IR, was calculated using an established formula. Individuals were assigned as insulin-sensitive T1D (the latest eGDR≥8 mg/kg/min), or insulin-resistant T1D/double diabetes (the latest eGDR<8 mg/kg/min). Generalised linear mixed model was employed to compare the temporal patterns of HbA1c, BMI, and eGDR between the two groups.

RESULTS

26 insulin-resistant T1D had a gradual decline in eGDR, corresponding with increased weight and HbA1c. In contrast, 43 insulin-sensitive T1D had stable insulin sensitivity with an improvement in HbA1c over time, associated with a modest weight gain. Fluctuations of glucose levels were observed during the early diabetes course leading to unstable eGDR, thus limiting the use of eGDR to classify insulin-resistant T1D.

CONCLUSION

T1D individuals who eventually develop IR are likely to experience early increasing IR over time. In contrast, those who ultimately do not have IR, maintain their insulin sensitivity throughout their course at least in the medium term.

The Cellular and Protein Arms of Coagulation in Diabetes: Established and Potential Targets for the Reduction of Thrombotic Risk

Diabetes is a metabolic condition with a rising global prevalence and is characterised by abnormally high blood glucose levels. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) accounts for the majority of deaths in diabetes and, despite improvements in therapy, mortality and hospitalisations in this cohort remain disproportionally higher compared to individuals with normal glucose metabolism. One mechanism for increased CVD risk is enhanced thrombosis potential, due to altered function of the cellular and acellular arms of coagulation. Different mechanisms have been identified that mediate disordered blood clot formation and breakdown in diabetes, including dysglycaemia, insulin resistance, and metabolic co-morbidities. Collectively, these induce platelet/endothelial dysfunction and impair the fibrinolytic process, thus creating a prothrombotic milieu. Despite these abnormalities, current antithrombotic therapies are largely similar in diabetes compared to those without this condition, which explains the high proportion of patients experiencing treatment failure while also displaying an increased risk of bleeding events. In this narrative review, we aimed to summarise the physiological functioning of haemostasis followed by the pathological effects of diabetes mellitus on platelets and the fibrin network. Moreover, we carefully reviewed the literature to describe the current and future therapeutic targets to lower the thrombosis risk and improve vascular outcomes in diabetes.

Barriers to Exercise in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

OBJECTIVE

Our aim in this study was to assess attitudes toward exercise and quality of life (QoL) in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) with and without insulin resistance (IR).

METHODS

We pooled baseline pretreatment data from a subset of individuals with T1D from 2 randomized controlled trials. Estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), a validated surrogate marker of IR, was calculated using an established formula to classify individuals according to IR status with a cutpoint of <6 mg/kg/min for the determination of IR. Self-reported barriers to exercise were obtained using a validated questionnaire, the Barriers to Physical Activity in T1D (BAPAD-1). In addition, QoL was determined using the 36-item Short Form (SF-36) questionnaire. Differences between dichotomized variables were assessed using the independent t test, Mann-Whitney U test, or Fisher exact test. Linear regression was employed to explore the association of eGDR with BAPAD-1 and QoL scores, with sequential adjustment for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Of the 85 individuals included in our study, 39 were classified as having IR. The mean BAPAD-1 total score was higher for individuals with IR (IR: 3.87±0.61; non-IR: 2.83±0.55; p<0.001). The highest exercise barrier scores for individuals with IR were risk of hypoglycemia (5.67±1.26) and risk of hyperglycemia (5.23±1.20), whereas the highest scoring exercise barrier scores for non-IR individuals were not diabetes-related, with low level of fitness (3.91±1.26) and physical health status, excluding diabetes (3.67±1.48), ranked highest. QoL scores were comparable between groups (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of hypoglycemia was the greatest barrier to exercise in individuals with T1D with IR, whereas non-diabetes-related barriers to exercise were more salient in individuals with T1D without IR.

Personalized Glycated Hemoglobin in Diabetes Management: Closing the Gap with Glucose Management Indicator

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) has played a central role in the management of diabetes since the end of the landmark Diabetes Control and Complications Trial 30 years ago. However, it is known to be subject to distortions related to altered red blood cell (RBC) properties, including changes in cellular lifespan. On occasion, the distortion of HbA1c is associated with a clinical pathological condition affecting RBCs, however, the more frequent scenario is related to interindividual RBC variations that alter HbA1c-average glucose relationship. Clinically, these variations can potentially lead to over- or underestimating glucose exposure of the individual to the extent that may put the person at excess risk of over- or undertreatment. Furthermore, the variable association between HbA1c and glucose levels across different groups of people may become an unintentional driver of inequitable health care delivery, outcomes, and incentives. The subclinical effects within the normal expected physiological range of RBCs can be large enough to alter clinical interpretation of HbA1c and addressing this will help with individualized care and decision making. This review describes a new glycemic measure, personalized HbA1c (pA1c), that may address the clinical inaccuracies of HbA1c by taking into account interindividual variability in RBC glucose uptake and lifespan. Therefore, pA1c represents a more sophisticated understanding of glucose-HbA1c relationship at an individual level. Future use of pA1c, after adequate clinical validation, has the potential to refine glycemic management and the diagnostic criteria in diabetes.

Magnesium Deficiency and Cardiometabolic Disease

Magnesium (Mg²⁺) has many physiological functions within the body. These include important roles in maintaining cardiovascular functioning, where it contributes to the regulation of cardiac excitation-contraction coupling, endothelial functioning and haemostasis. The haemostatic roles of Mg²⁺ impact upon both the protein and cellular arms of coagulation. In this review, we examine how Mg²⁺ homeostasis is maintained within the body and highlight the various molecular roles attributed to Mg²⁺ in the cardiovascular system. In addition, we describe how nutritional and/or disease-associated magnesium deficiency, seen in some metabolic conditions, has the potential to influence cardiac and vascular outcomes. Finally, we also examine the potential for magnesium supplements to be employed in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disorders and in the management of cardiometabolic health.

Dietary fat intake is associated with insulin resistance and an adverse vascular profile in patients with T1D: a pooled analysis

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance (IR) increases vascular risk in individuals with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). We aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary intake and IR, as well as vascular biomarkers in T1D.

METHODS

Baseline data from three randomised controlled trials were pooled. Estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) was used as an IR marker. Employing multivariate nutrient density substitution models, we examined the association between macronutrient composition and IR/vascular biomarkers (tumour necrosis factor-α, fibrinogen, tissue factor activity, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1).

RESULTS

Of the 107 patients, 50.5% were male with mean age of 29 ± 6 years. Those with lower eGDR were older with a longer diabetes duration, higher insulin requirements, and an adverse vascular profile (p < 0.05). Patients with higher degrees of IR had higher total energy intake (3192 ± 566 vs. 2772 ± 268 vs. 2626 ± 395 kcal/d for eGDR < 5.1 vs. 5.1-8.6 vs. ≥ 8.7 mg/kg/min, p < 0.001) and consumed a higher absolute and proportional amount of fat (47.6 ± 18.6 vs. 30.4 ± 8.1 vs. 25.8 ± 10.4%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for total energy intake, age, sex, and diabetes duration, increased carbohydrate intake offset by an isoenergetic decrease in fat was associated with higher eGDR (β = 0.103, 95% CI 0.044-0.163). In contrast, increased dietary fat at the expense of dietary protein intake was associated with lower eGDR (β = - 0.119, 95% CI - 0.199 to - 0.040). Replacing fat with 5% isoenergetic amount of carbohydrate resulted in decreased vascular biomarkers (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Higher fat, but not carbohydrate, intake is associated with increased IR and an adverse vascular profile in patients with T1D.

Total plasma magnesium, zinc, copper and selenium concentrations in obese patients before and after bariatric surgery

Obesity enhances the risk of type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and inflammatory conditions and often leads to metal dyshomeostasis, which contributes to the negative health aspects associated with the disease. In severe cases, bariatric surgery can be recommended to achieve sustained weight loss and improvement in health. Here, magnesium, zinc, copper and selenium concentrations were examined in 24 obese patients (7 males; 17 females) before and 9 months after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. All patients lost weight over this period, with the mean BMI reducing from 51.2±7.1 kg/m2 to 37.2±5.5 kg/m2. Moreover, whole-blood glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), as a marker of average glycaemia, was also measured and a correlative analysis of this parameter with metal concentrations performed. Significant alterations in the plasma concentrations of magnesium, zinc (both increased by 13.2% and 25.2% respectively) and copper (decreased by 7.9%) were observed over this period (plasma selenium concentration was unchanged), with BMI values correlating with plasma magnesium (p = 0.004) and zinc (p = 0.022) concentrations. At 9 months post-surgery, an increase in mean zinc/copper ratio was observed (0.86±0.29 compared to 0.63±0.14 pre-surgery). Comparison of whole-blood HbA1c concentrations pre- and post-surgery revealed a reduction from 6.50±1.28% pre-surgery to 5.51±0.49% post-surgery. Differences in plasma HbA1c and magnesium at either pre- and post-surgery correlated significantly, as did HbA1c and magnesium levels when pre- and post-surgery values were analysed together. Collectively, this work reveals that bariatric surgery, in conjunction with lifestyle/dietary changes, lead to improvements in the nutritional status of magnesium, zinc and copper. Furthermore, the observed improvements in magnesium and zinc were associated with weight loss and in the case of magnesium, to better glycaemic control.

Multicenter Randomized Trial of Intermittently Scanned Continuous Glucose Monitoring Versus Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes and Recent-Onset Acute Myocardial Infarction: Results of the LIBERATES Trial

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the impact of modern glucose-monitoring strategies on glycemic and patient-related outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and recent myocardial infarction (MI) and assess cost effectiveness.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

LIBERATES was a multicenter two-arm randomized trial comparing self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) with intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM), also known as flash CGM, in individuals with T2D and recent MI, treated with insulin and/or a sulphonylurea before hospital admission. The primary outcome measure was time in range (TIR) (glucose 3.9-10 mmol/L/day) on days 76-90 post-randomization. Secondary and exploratory outcomes included time in hypoglycemia, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), clinical outcome, quality of life (QOL), and cost effectiveness.

RESULTS

Of 141 participants randomly assigned (median age 63 years; interquartile range 53, 70), 73% of whom were men, isCGM was associated with increased TIR by 17 min/day (95% credible interval -105 to +153 min/day), with 59% probability of benefit. Users of isCGM showed lower hypoglycemic exposure (<3.9 mmol/L) at days 76-90 (-80 min/day; 95% CI -118, -43), also evident at days 16-30 (-28 min/day; 95% CI -92, 2). Compared with baseline, HbA1c showed similar reductions of 7 mmol/mol at 3 months in both study arms. Combined glycemic emergencies and mortality occurred in four isCGM and seven SMBG study participants. QOL measures marginally favored isCGM, and the intervention proved to be cost effective.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with SMBG, isCGM in T2D individuals with MI marginally increases TIR and significantly reduces hypoglycemic exposure while equally improving HbA1c, explaining its cost effectiveness. Studies are required to understand whether these glycemic differences translate into longer-term clinical benefit.

Impact of glycaemic technologies on quality of life and related outcomes in adults with type 1 diabetes: A narrative review

AIMS

To explore the association between the use of glycaemic technologies and person-reported outcomes (PROs) in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

We included T1D and technology publications reporting on PROs since 2014. Only randomised controlled trials and cohort studies that used validated PRO measures (PROMs) were considered.

RESULTS

T1D studies reported on a broad range of validated PROMs, mainly as secondary outcome measures. Most studies examined continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), intermittently scanned CGM (isCGM), and the role of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), including sensor-augmented CSII and closed loop systems. Generally, studies demonstrated a positive impact of technology on hypoglycaemia-specific and diabetes-specific PROs, including reduced fear of hypoglycaemia and diabetes distress, and greater satisfaction with diabetes treatment. In contrast, generic PROMs (including measures of health/functional status, emotional well-being, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality) were less likely to demonstrate improvements associated with the use of glycaemic technologies. Several studies showed contradictory findings, which may relate to study design, population and length of follow-up. Differences in PRO findings were apparent between randomised controlled trials and cohort studies, which may be due to different populations studied and/or disparity between trial and real-world conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

PROs are usually assessed as secondary outcomes in glycaemic technology studies. Hypoglycaemia-specific and diabetes-specific, but not generic, PROs show the benefits of glycaemic technologies, and deserve a more central role in future studies as well as routine clinical care.

Evaluation of continuous glucose monitoring-derived person-specific HbA1c in the presence and absence of complications in type 1 diabetes

AIM

To evaluate the accuracy of a novel kinetic model at predicting HbA1c in a real-world setting and to understand and explore the role of diabetes complications in altering the glucose-HbA1c relationship and the mechanisms involved.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Deidentified HbA1c and continuous glucose monitoring values were collected from 93 individuals with type 1 diabetes. Person-specific kinetic variables were used, including red blood cell (RBC) glucose uptake and lifespan, to characterize the relationship between glucose levels and HbA1c. The resulting calculated HbA1c (cHbA1c) was compared with glucose management indicator (GMI) for prospective agreement with laboratory HbA1c.

RESULTS

The cohort (42 men and 51 women) had a median age (IQR) of 61 (43, 72) years and a diabetes duration of 21 (10, 33) years. A total of 24 459 days of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data were available and 357 laboratory HbA1c were used to assess the average glucose-HbA1c relationship. cHbA1c had a superior correlation with laboratory HbA1c compared with GMI with a mean absolute deviation of 1.7 and 6.7 mmol/mol, r²  = 0.85 and 0.44, respectively. The fraction within 10% of absolute relative deviation from laboratory HbA1c was 93% for cHbA1c and 63% for GMI. Macrovascular disease had no effect on the model's accuracy, whereas microvascular complications resulted in a trend towards higher HbA1c, secondary to increased RBC glucose uptake.

CONCLUSIONS

cHbA1c, which takes into account RBC glucose uptake and lifespan, accurately reflects laboratory HbA1c in a real-world setting and can aid in the management of individuals with diabetes.

Platelet-Neutrophil Interaction and Thromboinflammation in Diabetes: Considerations for Novel Therapeutic Approaches

Thromboinflammation has become a topic of key interest in cardiovascular disease and the prevention of diabetes complications because of the interplay between thrombosis and inflammation in diabetes. Specifically, the significant risk of vascular thrombotic disease in diabetes highlights the need for new and better therapeutic targets to help manage and prevent vascular thrombo-occlusive disease in this condition. Similarly, the prominent role of inflammation in diabetes has sparked interest in anti-inflammatory agents to better prevent and control vascular disease. Investigations on the effects of anticoagulation and antiplatelet interventions in patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease show a potential role for these agents in decreasing morbidity and mortality. Neutrophils and platelets are key players in inflammation and wound-healing response, respectively. The interaction between neutrophils and platelets is thought to be an important driver of thromboinflammation. Therefore, this review describes the mechanisms involved in platelet-neutrophil interactions that contribute to the development or exacerbation of thromboinflammation in the context of diabetes and its associated comorbidities. The effects observed by the antithrombotic/antidiabetic treatments and physical activity/dietary interventions on attenuating thromboinflammation are discussed. These data suggest that mechanisms involved in platelet-neutrophil interaction, platelet activation/aggregation, and the recruitment of neutrophils have a promising potential to become therapeutic targets to decrease thromboinflammation in patients with diabetes.

Plasmin Inhibitor in Health and Diabetes: Role of the Protein as a Therapeutic Target

The vascular obstructive thrombus is composed of a mesh of fibrin fibers with blood cells trapped in these networks. Enhanced fibrin clot formation and/or suppression of fibrinolysis are associated with an increased risk of vascular occlusive events. Inhibitors of coagulation factors and activators of plasminogen have been clinically used to limit fibrin network formation and enhance lysis. While these agents are effective at reducing vascular occlusion, they carry a significant risk of bleeding complications. Fibrin clot lysis, essential for normal hemostasis, is controlled by several factors including the incorporation of antifibrinolytic proteins into the clot. Plasmin inhibitor (PI), a key antifibrinolytic protein, is cross-linked into fibrin networks with higher concentrations of PI documented in fibrin clots and plasma from high vascular risk individuals. This review is focused on exploring PI as a target for the prevention and treatment of vascular occlusive disease. We first discuss the relationship between the PI structure and antifibrinolytic activity, followed by describing the function of the protein in normal physiology and its role in pathological vascular thrombosis. Subsequently, we describe in detail the potential use of PI as a therapeutic target, including the array of methods employed for the modulation of protein activity. Effective and safe inhibition of PI may prove to be an alternative and specific way to reduce vascular thrombotic events while keeping bleeding risk to a minimum. Key Points Plasmin inhibitor (PI) is a key protein that inhibits fibrinolysis and stabilizes the fibrin network.This review is focused on discussing mechanistic pathways for PI action, role of the molecule in disease states, and potential use as a therapeutic target.

Changes in plasma free fatty acids in obese patients before and after bariatric surgery highlight alterations in lipid metabolism

Obesity is a complex disease that increases an individual’s risk of developing other diseases and health-related problems. A common feature is dyslipidemia characterized by increased levels of plasma lipids, which include non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). The role of NEFAs in obesity-related morbidity is interesting as NEFAs constitute a reservoir of metabolic energy, are principal components of cell membranes and are precursors for signalling molecules. Bariatric surgery promotes sustained weight loss in severely obese patients, reducing the incidence and severity of co-morbidities. In this study we measure changes in circulating NEFA species in plasma samples taken from 25 obese individuals before and 9 months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. The mean weight of the cohort reduced by 29.2% from 149.0 ± 25.1 kg pre-surgery to 105.5 ± 19.8 kg post-surgery and the BMI by 28.2% from 51.8 ± 6.3 kg/m² pre-surgery to 37.2 ± 5.4 kg/m². Mean glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) reduced from 6.5 ± 1.3 to 5.5 ± 0.5%, consistent with the intervention leading to improved glycaemic control, particularly in those who were dysglycemic prior to surgery. Total and LDL cholesterol concentrations were markedly reduced following surgery. Concentrations of seven NEFAs were found to decrease 9 months after surgery compared to pre-surgery levels: myristate, palmitoleate, palmitate, linoleate, oleate, stearate and arachidonate. Bariatric surgery led to increased lipogenesis and elongase activity and decreased stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 activity. This study therefore highlights metabolic changes that take place following gastric bypass surgery in severely obese patients.

Strategies for Therapeutic Amelioration of Aberrant Plasma Zn2+ Handling in Thrombotic Disease: Targeting Fatty Acid/Serum Albumin-Mediated Effects

The initiation, maintenance and regulation of blood coagulation is inexorably linked to the actions of Zn²⁺ in blood plasma. Zn²⁺ interacts with a variety of haemostatic proteins in the bloodstream including fibrinogen, histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) and high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK) to regulate haemostasis. The availability of Zn²⁺ to bind such proteins is controlled by human serum albumin (HSA), which binds 70–85% of plasma Zn²⁺ under basal conditions. HSA also binds and transports non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). Upon NEFA binding, there is a change in the structure of HSA which leads to a reduction in its affinity for Zn²⁺. This enables other plasma proteins to better compete for binding of Zn²⁺. In diseases where elevated plasma NEFA concentrations are a feature, such as obesity and diabetes, there is a concurrent increase in hypercoagulability. Evidence indicates that NEFA-induced perturbation of Zn²⁺-binding by HSA may contribute to the thrombotic complications frequently observed in these pathophysiological conditions. This review highlights potential interventions, both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical that may be employed to combat this dysregulation. Lifestyle and dietary changes have been shown to reduce plasma NEFA concentrations. Furthermore, drugs that influence NEFA levels such as statins and fibrates may be useful in this context. In severely obese patients, more invasive therapies such as bariatric surgery may be useful. Finally, other potential treatments such as chelation therapies, use of cholesteryl transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors, lipase inhibitors, fatty acid inhibitors and other treatments are highlighted, which with additional research and appropriate clinical trials, could prove useful in the treatment and management of thrombotic disease through amelioration of plasma Zn²⁺ dysregulation in high-risk individuals.

Interindividual variability in average glucose-glycated haemoglobin relationship in type 1 diabetes and implications for clinical practice

AIM

Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) can fail to reflect average glucose levels, potentially compromising management decisions. We analysed variability in the relationship between mean glucose and HbA1c in individuals with diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three months of continuous glucose monitoring and HbA1c data were obtained from 216 individuals with type 1 diabetes. Universal red blood cell glucose transporter-1 Michaelis constant K_M and individualized apparent glycation ratio (AGR) were calculated and compared across age, racial and gender groups.

RESULTS

The mean age (range) was 30 years (8-72) with 94 younger than 19 years, 78 between 19 and 50 years, and 44 were >50 years. The group contained 120 women and 96 men with 106 white and 110 black individuals. The determined K_M value was 464 mg/dl and AGR was (mean ± SD) 72.1 ± 7 ml/g. AGR, which correlated with red blood cell lifespan marker, was highest in those aged >50 years at 75.4 ± 6.9 ml/g, decreasing to 73.2 ± 7.8 ml/g in 19-50 years, with a further drop to 71.0 ± 5.8 ml/g in the youngest group (p <0 .05). AGR differed between white and black groups (69.9 ± 5.8 and 74.2 ± 7.1 ml/g, respectively; p < .001). In contrast, AGR values were similar in men and women (71.5 ± 7.5 and 72.5 ± 6.6 ml/g, respectively; p = .27). Interestingly, interindividual AGR variation within each group was at least four-fold higher than average for between-group variation.

CONCLUSIONS

In this type 1 diabetes cohort, ethnicity and age, but not gender, alter the HbA1c-glucose relationship with even larger interindividual variations found within each group than between groups. Clinical application of personalized HbA1c-glucose relationships has the potential to optimize glycaemic care in the population with diabetes.

From Skepticism to Hope: The Evolving Concept of the Initiation and Use of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors in Hospitalized Patients

The management of hyperglycemia in patients admitted to hospital is mainly based on insulin therapy. However, the positive and rapid effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on cardiorenal outcomes raises the possibility that they might confer benefits to hospitalized patients. In recent, well designed, randomized trials (SOLOIST-WHF and EMPULSE) recruiting inpatients with heart failure (HF), SGLT2i demonstrated the potential to improve survival and quality of life and reduce the number of HF events, time to first HF event, hospitalizations, and urgent visits for HF compared with placebo. They were also well tolerated, whereas incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis was low. In EMBODY, empagliflozin was shown to be protective against the deleterious effects of cardiac injury in patients with acute myocardial infarction. In DARE-19, the administration of dapagliflozin to inpatients with cardiometabolic risk factors and COVID-19 was based on the hypothesis that the anti-inflammatory properties of SGLT2i could alleviate organ damage. Although the findings did not reach statistical significance, the efficacy and safety profiles of the drug were encouraging. These promising findings in the field of cardiometabolic medicine set the stage for future research to explore whether the benefits of gliflozins can expand to inpatients with non-cardiometabolic disorders, including sepsis, cirrhotic ascites, and malignancies. The concept of inpatient use of SGLT2i has evolved greatly over the past few years. The latest evidence suggests that SGLT2i may be effective and safe in the hospital setting, provided patients are carefully selected and closely monitored. Real-world data will prove whether present hope about inpatient use of gliflozins will transform into future confidence.

The relative contribution of diurnal and nocturnal glucose exposures to HbA1c in type 1 diabetes males: a pooled analysis

Purpose

The exact contribution of daily glucose exposure to HbA1c in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) remains controversial. We examined the contribution of pre- and postprandial glycaemia, nocturnal and early-morning glycaemia, and glycaemic variability to HbA1c levels in T1D. In this analysis, we used clinical data, namely age, BMI and HbA1c, as well as glycaemic metrics (24-h glycaemia, postprandial, nocturnal, early-morning glycaemia, wake-up glucose, and glycaemic variability) obtained over a four-week period of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) wear in thirty-two males with T1D.

Methods

The trapezoid method was used estimate the incremental area under the glucose curve (iAUC) for 24-h, postprandial (3-h period following breakfast, lunch, and dinner, respectively), nocturnal (between 24:00–04:00 AM), and early-morning (2-h period 2-h prior to wake-up) glycaemia. Linear regression analysis was employed whereby CGM-derived glycaemic metrics were explanatory variables and HbA1c was the outcome.

Results

Thirty-two T1D males (mean ± SD: age 29 ± 4 years; HbA1c 7.3 ± 0.9% [56 ± 13 mmol/mol]; BMI 25.80 ± 5.01 kg/m²) were included in this analysis. In linear models adjusted for age and BMI, HbA1c was associated with 24-h mean glucose (r² = 0.735, p < 0.001), SD (r² = 0.643, p = 0.039), and dinner iAUC (r² = 0.711, p = 0.001). CGM-derived metrics and non-glycaemic factors explained 77% of the variance in HbA1c, in which postprandial glucose accounted for 32% of the variance explained. The single greatest contributor to HbA1c was dinner iAUC resulting in 0.6%-point (~7 mmol/mol) increase in HbA1c per SD increase in dinner iAUC.

Conclusions

Using comprehensive CGM profiling, we show that postprandial glucose, specifically evening-time postprandial glucose, is the single largest contributing factor to HbA1c in T1D.

Trial registration number

NCT02204839 (July 30th 2014); NCT02595658 (November 3rd 2015).

Glucose variability is associated with an adverse vascular profile but only in the presence of insulin resistance in individuals with type 1 diabetes: An observational study

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesised that the detrimental effect of high glucose variability (GV) in people with type 1 diabetes is mainly evident in those with concomitant insulin resistance.

METHODS

We conducted secondary analyses on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) using baseline observational data from three randomised controlled trials and assessed the relationship with established vascular markers. We used standard CGM summary statistics and principal component analysis to generate individual glucose variability signatures for each participant. Cluster analysis was then employed to establish three GV clusters (low, intermediate, or high GV, respectively). The relationship with thrombotic biomarkers was then investigated according to insulin resistance, assessed as estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR).

RESULTS

Of 107 patients, 45%, 37%, and 18% of patients were assigned into low, intermediate, and high GV clusters, respectively. Thrombosis biomarkers (including fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, tissue factor activity, and tumour necrosis factor-alpha) increased in a stepwise fashion across all three GV clusters; this increase in thrombosis markers was evident in the presence of low but not high eGDR and at a threshold of eGDR <5.1 mg/kg/min.

CONCLUSION

Higher GV is associated with increased thrombotic biomarkers in type 1 diabetes but only in those with concomitant insulin resistance.

Non-Traditional Pathways for Platelet Pathophysiology in Diabetes: Implications for Future Therapeutic Targets

Cardiovascular complications remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with diabetes, driven by interlinked metabolic, inflammatory, and thrombotic changes. Hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance/deficiency, dyslipidaemia, and associated oxidative stress have been linked to abnormal platelet function leading to hyperactivity, and thus increasing vascular thrombotic risk. However, emerging evidence suggests platelets also contribute to low-grade inflammation and additionally possess the ability to interact with circulating immune cells, further driving vascular thrombo-inflammatory pathways. This narrative review highlights the role of platelets in inflammatory and immune processes beyond typical thrombotic effects and the impact these mechanisms have on cardiovascular disease in diabetes. We discuss pathways for platelet-induced inflammation and how platelet reprogramming in diabetes contributes to the high cardiovascular risk that characterises this population. Fully understanding the mechanistic pathways for platelet-induced vascular pathology will allow for the development of more effective management strategies that deal with the causes rather than the consequences of platelet function abnormalities in diabetes.

Diabetes mellitus and perioperative outcomes: a scoping review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is frequently encountered in the perioperative period. DM may increase the risk of adverse perioperative outcomes owing to the potential vascular complications of DM. We conducted a scoping review to examine the association between DM and adverse perioperative outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic search strategy of the published literature was built and applied in multiple databases. Observational studies examining the association between DM and adverse perioperative outcomes were included. Abstract screening determined full texts suitable for inclusion. Core information was extracted from each of the included studies including study design, definition of DM, type of DM, surgical specialties, and outcomes. Only primary outcomes are reported in this review.

RESULTS

The search strategy identified 2363 records. Of those, 61 were included and 28 were excluded with justification. DM was mostly defined by either haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) or blood glucose values (19 studies each). Other definitions included 'prior diagnosis' or use of medication. In 17 studies the definition was unclear. Type 2 DM was the most frequently studied subtype. Five of seven studies found DM was associated with mortality, 5/13 reported an association with 'complications' (as a composite measure), and 12/17 studies found DM was associated with 'infection'. Overall, 33/61 studies reported that DM was associated with the primary outcome measure.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes mellitus is inconsistently defined in the published literature, which limits the potential for pooled analysis. Further research is necessary to determine which cohort of patients with DM are most at risk of adverse postoperative outcomes, and how control influences this association.

Oral 11β-HSD1 inhibitor AZD4017 improves wound healing and skin integrity in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a pilot randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Chronic wounds (e.g. diabetic foot ulcers) reduce the quality of life, yet treatments remain limited. Glucocorticoids (activated by the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, 11β-HSD1) impair wound healing.

OBJECTIVES

Efficacy, safety, and feasibility of 11β-HSD1 inhibition for skin function and wound healing.

DESIGN

Investigator-initiated, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group phase 2b pilot trial.

METHODS

Single-center secondary care setting. Adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus without foot ulcers were administered 400 mg oral 11β-HSD1 inhibitor AZD4017 (n = 14) or placebo (n = 14) bi-daily for 35 days. Participants underwent 3-mm full-thickness punch skin biopsies at baseline and on day 28; wound healing was monitored after 2 and 7 days. Computer-generated 1:1 randomization was pharmacy-administered. Analysis was descriptive and focused on CI estimation. Of the 36 participants screened, 28 were randomized.

RESULTS

Exploratory proof-of-concept efficacy analysis suggested AZD4017 did not inhibit 24-h ex vivoskin 11β-HSD1 activity (primary outcome; difference in percentage conversion per 24 h 1.1% (90% CI: -3.4 to 5.5) but reduced systemic 11β-HSD1 activity by 87% (69-104%). Wound diameter was 34% (7-63%) smaller with AZD4017 at day 2, and 48% (12-85%) smaller after repeat wounding at day 30. AZD4017 improved epidermal integrity but modestly impaired barrier function. Minimal adverse events were comparable to placebo. Recruitment rate, retention, and data completeness were 2.9/month, 27/28, and 95.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A phase 2 trial is feasible, and preliminary proof-of-concept data suggests AZD4017 warrants further investigation in conditions of delayed healing, for example in diabetic foot ulcers.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Stress hormone activation by the enzyme 11β-HSD type 1 impairs skin function (e.g. integrity) and delays wound healing in animal models of diabetes, but effects in human skin were previously unknown. Skin function was evaluated in response to treatment with a 11β-HSD type 1 inhibitor (AZD4017), or placebo, in people with type 2 diabetes. Importantly, AZD4017 was safe and well tolerated. This first-in-human randomized, controlled, clinical trial found novel evidence that 11β-HSD type 1 regulates skin function in humans, including improved wound healing, epidermal integrity, and increased water loss. Results warrant further studies in conditions of impaired wound healing, for example, diabetic foot ulcers to evaluate 11β-HSD type 1 as a novel therapeutic target forchronic wounds.

Risk factors associated with mortality in individuals with type 2 diabetes following an episode of severe hypoglycaemia. Results from a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Severe hypoglycaemia may pose significant risk to individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D), and evidence surrounding strategies to mitigate this risk is lacking.

METHODS

Data was re-analysed from a previous randomised controlled trial studying the impact of nurse-led intervention on mortality following severe hypoglycaemia in the community. A Cox-regression model was used to identify baseline characteristics associated with mortality and to adjust for differences between groups. Kaplan-Meier curves were created to demonstrate differences in outcome between groups across different variables.

RESULTS

A total of 124 participants (mean age = 75, 56.5% male) were analysed. In univariate analysis, Diabetes Severity Score (DSS), age and insulin use were baseline factors found to correlate to mortality, while HbA1C and established cardiovascular disease showed no significant correlations. Hazard ratio favoured the intervention (0.68, 95% CI: 0.38-1.19) and in multivariate analysis, only DSS demonstrated a relationship with mortality. Comparison of Kaplan-Meier curves across study groups suggested the intervention is beneficial irrespective of HbA1c, diabetes severity score or age.

CONCLUSION

While DSS predicts mortality following severe community hypoglycaemia in individuals with T2D, a structured nurse-led intervention appears to reduce the risk of death across a range of baseline parameters.

A randomised controlled trial to assess the antithrombotic effects of aspirin in type 1 diabetes: role of dosing and glycaemic control

Background

The enhanced thrombotic milieu in diabetes contributes to increased risk of vascular events. Aspirin, a key antiplatelet agent, has inconsistent effects on outcomes in diabetes and the best dosing regimen remains unclear. This work investigated effects of aspirin dose and interaction with glycaemia on both the cellular and protein components of thrombosis.

Methods

A total of 48 participants with type 1 diabetes and 48 healthy controls were randomised to receive aspirin 75 or 300 mg once-daily (OD) in an open-label crossover study. Light transmittance aggregometry and fibrin clot studies were performed before and at the end of each treatment period.

Results

Aspirin demonstrated reduced inhibition of collagen-induced platelet aggregation (PA) in participants with diabetes compared with controls, although the higher dose showed better efficacy. Higher aspirin dose facilitated clot lysis in controls but not individuals with diabetes. Collagen-induced PA correlated with glycaemic control, those in the top HbA1c tertile having a lesser inhibitory effect of aspirin. Threshold analysis suggested HbA1c levels of > 65 mmol/mol and > 70 mmol/mol were associated with poor aspirin response to 75 and 300 mg daily doses, respectively. Higher HbA1c was also associated with longer fibrin clot lysis time.

Conclusions

Patients with diabetes respond differently to the antiplatelet and profibrinolytic effects of aspirin compared with controls. In particular, those with elevated HbA1c have reduced inhibition of PA with aspirin. Our findings indicate that reducing glucose levels improves the anti-thrombotic action of aspirin in diabetes, which may have future clinical implications.

Trial registration

EudraCT, 2008-007875-26, https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/search?query=2008-007875-26.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12933-021-01427-y.

Estimated glucose disposal rate as a candidate biomarker for thrombotic biomarkers in T1D: a pooled analysis

PURPOSE

To determine the utility of estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) as a candidate biomarker for thrombotic biomarkers in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

We reanalysed baseline pretreatment data in a subset of patients with T1D from two previous RCTs, consisting of a panel of thrombotic markers, including fibrinogen, tissue factor (TF) activity, and plasminogen-activator inhibitor (PAI)-1, and TNFα, and clinical factors (age, T1D duration, HbA1c, insulin requirements, BMI, blood pressure, and eGDR). We employed univariate linear regression models to investigate associations between clinical parameters and eGDR with thrombotic biomarkers.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients were included [mean ± SD age 31 ± 7 years, HbA1c of 58 ± 9 mmol/mol (7.5 ± 0.8%), eGDR 7.73 ± 2.61]. eGDR negatively associated with fibrinogen (P < 0.001), PAI-1 concentrations (P = 0.005), and TF activity (P = 0.020), but not TNFα levels (P = 0.881). We identified 2 clusters of patients displaying significantly different characteristics; 56% (n = 18) were categorised as 'higher-risk', eliciting significantly higher fibrinogen (+ 1514 ± 594 μg/mL; P < 0.001), TF activity (+ 59.23 ± 9.42 pmol/mL; P < 0.001), and PAI-1 (+ 8.48 ± 1.58 pmol/dL; P < 0.001), HbA1c concentrations (+ 14.20 ± 1.04 mmol/mol; P < 0.001), age (+ 7 ± 3 years; P < 0.001), duration of diabetes (15 ± 2 years; P < 0.001), BMI (+ 7.66 ± 2.61 kg/m²; P < 0.001), and lower mean eGDR (- 3.98 ± 1.07; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to BMI and insulin requirements, classical surrogates of insulin resistance, eGDR is a suitable and superior thrombotic risk indicator in T1D.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN4081115; registered 27 June 2017.

Use of continuous glucose monitoring trend arrows in the younger population with type 1 diabetes

Early control of glycaemia is key to reduce vascular complications in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. Therefore, encouraging children and adolescents with T1DM to take responsibility for controlling glucose levels is an important yet a challenging task. The rapid expansion of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems has allowed for more comprehensive analysis of glycaemia in T1D. Moreover, CGM devices have the ability to calculate rate of change in glucose levels and display the information as trend arrows. In turn, this can help to take evasive actions to return glucose levels to near physiological glycaemia, which can be highly motivating for young people with T1DM. In the absence of standardised, evidence-based guidance, this consensus document, generated by experts from the Arab Society of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes and international advisors, summarises recent literature on the use of trend arrows in young people with T1DM. The use of trend arrows in different CGM systems is reviewed and their clinical significance is highlighted. Adjusting insulin doses according to trend arrows is discussed while also addressing special situations, such as exercise, fasting, nocturnal hypoglycaemia and menstruation. Adequate understanding of trend arrows should facilitate optimisation of glycaemic control in the T1D population.

Fibrinogen αC-subregions critically contribute blood clot fibre growth, mechanical stability, and resistance to fibrinolysis

Fibrinogen is essential for blood coagulation. The C-terminus of the fibrinogen α-chain (αC-region) is composed of an αC-domain and αC-connector. Two recombinant fibrinogen variants (α390 and α220) were produced to investigate the role of subregions in modulating clot stability and resistance to lysis. The α390 variant, truncated before the αC-domain, produced clots with a denser structure and thinner fibres. In contrast, the α220 variant, truncated at the start of the αC-connector, produced clots that were porous with short, stunted fibres and visible fibre ends. These clots were mechanically weak and susceptible to lysis. Our data demonstrate differential effects for the αC-subregions in fibrin polymerisation, clot mechanical strength, and fibrinolytic susceptibility. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the αC-subregions are key for promoting longitudinal fibre growth. Together, these findings highlight critical functions of the αC-subregions in relation to clot structure and stability, with future implications for development of novel therapeutics for thrombosis.

Addressing shortfalls of laboratory HbA1c using a model that incorporates red cell lifespan

Laboratory HbA_1c does not always predict diabetes complications and our aim was to establish a glycaemic measure that better reflects intracellular glucose exposure in organs susceptible to complications. Six months of continuous glucose monitoring data and concurrent laboratory HbA_1c were evaluated from 51 type 1 diabetes (T1D) and 80 type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. Red blood cell (RBC) lifespan was estimated using a kinetic model of glucose and HbA_1c, allowing the calculation of person-specific adjusted HbA_1c (aHbA_1c). Median (IQR) RBC lifespan was 100 (86–102) and 100 (83–101) days in T1D and T2D, respectively. The median (IQR) absolute difference between aHbA_1c and laboratory HbA_1c was 3.9 (3.0–14.3) mmol/mol [0.4 (0.3–1.3%)] in T1D and 5.3 (4.1–22.5) mmol/mol [0.5 (0.4–2.0%)] in T2D. aHbA_1c and laboratory HbA_1c showed clinically relevant differences. This suggests that the widely used measurement of HbA_1c can underestimate or overestimate diabetes complication risks, which may have future clinical implications.

Insights Into the Results of Sotagliflozin Cardiovascular Outcome Trials: Is Dual Inhibition the Cherry on the Cake of Cardiorenal Protection?

Sotagliflozin is a dual sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitor, manifesting a 20-fold higher inhibitory activity for SGLT2 than for SGLT1. Differences in SGLT2 over SGLT1 selectivity of the available agents have been proposed to relate to variability in efficacy and safety characteristics. In contrast to other SGLT2 inhibitors, the cardiorenal effects of sotagliflozin in type 2 diabetes had not been explored until recently, when the results of SOLOIST-WHF (focusing on heart failure [HF] outcomes) and SCORED (focusing on renal outcomes) were published. In SOLOIST-WHF, sotagliflozin reduced the risk of the primary composite outcome of cardiovascular (CV) death and hospitalizations and urgent visits for HF. The findings showed that the risk reduction was consistent in people with reduced but also in those with preserved ejection fraction (EF). In SCORED, sotagliflozin significantly reduced the primary end point of CV deaths, hospitalizations for HF, and urgent visits for HF. A reduction in glycated hemoglobin was evident even in participants with estimated glomerular filtration rate values below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². SCORED is also the first trial to illustrate the benefits of the class across the full range of albuminuria. Moreover, the endpoint of stroke was significantly reduced by 34% in the sotagliflozin compared with the placebo group. The findings of the two studies provide novel insights into the clinical utility of SGLT2 inhibitors, particularly with respect to the early initiation in stable HF, the benefits in HF with preserved EF, the glucose-lowering efficacy in people with severe renal impairment and their potential to improve atherosclerotic vascular disease, including stroke, outcomes.

Elimination of fibrin γ-chain cross-linking by FXIIIa increases pulmonary embolism arising from murine inferior vena cava thrombi

The onset of venous thromboembolism, including pulmonary embolism, represents a significant health burden affecting more than 1 million people annually worldwide. Current treatment options are based on anticoagulation, which is suboptimal for preventing further embolic events. In order to develop better treatments for thromboembolism, we sought to understand the structural and mechanical properties of blood clots and how this influences embolism in vivo. We developed a murine model in which fibrin γ-chain cross-linking by activated Factor XIII is eliminated (FGG3X) and applied methods to study thromboembolism at whole-body and organ levels. We show that FGG3X mice have a normal phenotype, with overall coagulation parameters and platelet aggregation and function largely unaffected, except for total inhibition of fibrin γ-chain cross-linking. Elimination of fibrin γ-chain cross-linking resulted in thrombi with reduced strength that were prone to fragmentation. Analysis of embolism in vivo using Xtreme optical imaging and light sheet microscopy demonstrated that the elimination of fibrin γ-chain cross-linking resulted in increased embolization without affecting clot size or lysis. Our findings point to a central previously unrecognized role for fibrin γ-chain cross-linking in clot stability. They also indirectly indicate mechanistic targets for the prevention of thrombosis through selective modulation of fibrin α-chain but not γ-chain cross-linking by activated Factor XIII to reduce thrombus size and burden, while maintaining clot stability and preventing embolism.

Antithrombotic therapy in diabetes: which, when, and for how long?

Cardiovascular disease remains the main cause of mortality in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) and also results in significant morbidity. Premature and more aggressive atherosclerotic disease, coupled with an enhanced thrombotic environment, contributes to the high vascular risk in individuals with DM. This prothrombotic milieu is due to increased platelet activity together with impaired fibrinolysis secondary to quantitative and qualitative changes in coagulation factors. However, management strategies to reduce thrombosis risk remain largely similar in individuals with and without DM. The current review covers the latest in the field of antithrombotic management in DM. The role of primary vascular prevention is discussed together with options for secondary prevention following an ischaemic event in different clinical scenarios including coronary, cerebrovascular, and peripheral artery diseases. Antiplatelet therapy combinations as well as combination of antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents are examined in both the acute phase and long term, including management of individuals with sinus rhythm and those with atrial fibrillation. The difficulties in tailoring therapy according to the variable atherothrombotic risk in different individuals are emphasized, in addition to the varying risk within an individual secondary to DM duration, presence of complications and predisposition to bleeding events. This review provides the reader with an up-to-date guide for antithrombotic management of individuals with DM and highlights gaps in knowledge that represent areas for future research, aiming to improve clinical outcome in this high-risk population.

Associations Between Erythrocyte Membrane Fatty Acid Compositions and Biomarkers of Vascular Health in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes With and Without Insulin Resistance: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between specific erythrocyte fatty acid levels and vascular health in type 1 diabetes (T1D) with and without insulin resistance (IR).

METHODS

We analyzed baseline pretreatment data in a subset of 23 patients with T1D from a previously published randomized controlled trial consisting of comprehensive erythrocyte-derived fatty acid profiles and a panel of inflammation-associated endothelial markers. Estimated glucose disposal rate was used to identify and categorize patients with IR. We utilized principal component analysis (PCA) to cluster vascular biomarkers to compute a single "vascular signal" and utilized univariate linear regression models to investigate the association with IR and fatty acid profiles.

RESULTS

Subjects with IR displayed significantly higher levels of linoleic acid (p=0.001), lower levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (p<0.001), lower levels of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) (p<0.006) and an increased omega-6 (n-6)PUFA:n-3PUFA ratio (p=0.001). IR was associated with significantly higher linoleic acid levels, total n-6PUFA and an increased ratio of n-6PUFA:n-3PUFA, and negatively associated with arachidonic acid and EPA levels, total saturated fatty acid and total n-3PUFA. The PCA-derived vascular biomarker cluster was positively associated with linoleic acid and n-6PUFA:n-3PUFA ratio, and inversely associated with EPA.

CONCLUSIONS

Specific erythrocyte membrane fatty acid compositions are associated with impaired vascular health and IR in adults with T1D. These findings suggest that IR and risk of associated complications may be influenced by specific fatty acid profiles, and thus potentially modified by the selective targeting of dietary fatty acids.

Fibrinogen interaction with complement C3: a potential therapeutic target to reduce thrombosis risk

Complement C3 binds fibrinogen and compromises fibrin clot lysis, thereby enhancing the risk of thrombosis. We investigated the role of the fibrinogen-C3 interaction as a novel therapeutic target to reduce thrombosis risk by analyzing: (i) consistency in the fibrinolytic properties of C3; (ii) binding sites between fibrinogen and C3; and (iii) modulation of fibrin clot lysis by manipulating fibrinogen-C3 interactions. Purified fibrinogen and C3 from the same individuals (n=24) were used to assess inter-individual variability in the anti-fibrinolytic effects of C3. Microarray screening and molecular modeling evaluated C3 and fibrinogen interaction sites. Novel synthetic conformational proteins, termed affimers, were used to modulate the C3-fibrinogen interaction and fibrinolysis. C3 purified from patients with type 1 diabetes showed enhanced prolongation of fibrinolysis compared with healthy control protein (195±105 and 522±166 s, respectively; P=0.04), with consistent effects but a wider range (5-51% and 5-18% lysis prolongation, respectively). Peptide microarray screening identified two potential C3-fibrinogen interaction sites within the fibrinogen β chain (residues 424-433 and 435-445). One fibrinogen-binding affimer that was isolated displayed sequence identity with C3 in an exposed area of the protein. This affimer abolished C3- induced prolongation of fibrinolysis (728±25.1 s to 632±23.7 s; P=0.005) and showed binding to fibrinogen in the same region that is involved in C3-fibrinogen interactions. Moreover, it shortened plasma clot lysis of patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease or controls by 7-11%. C3 binds fibrinogen -chain and disruption of the fibrinogen-C3 interaction using affimer proteins enhances fibrinolysis, which represents a potential novel tool to reduce thrombosis in high-risk individuals.

Personal Glycation Factors and Calculated Hemoglobin A1c for Diabetes Management: Real-World Data from the Diabetes Prospective Follow-up (DPV) Registry

Background: Glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a key biomarker in the glycemic management of individuals with diabetes, but the relationship with glucose levels can be variable. A recent kinetic model has described a calculated HbA1c (cHbA1c) that is individual specific. Our aim was to validate the routine clinical use of this glucose metric in younger individuals with diabetes under real-life settings. Materials and Methods: We retrieved HbA1c and glucose data from the German-Austrian-Swiss-Luxembourgian diabetes follow-up (DPV) registry, which covers pediatric individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The new glycemic measure, cHbA1c, uses two individual parameters identified by data sections that contain continuous glucose data between two laboratory HbA1c measurements. The cHbA1c was prospectively validated using longitudinal HbA1c data. Results: Continuous glucose monitoring data from 352 T1D individuals in 13 clinics were analyzed together with HbA1c that ranged between 4.9% and 10.6%. In the prospective analysis, absolute deviations of estimated HbA1c (eHbA1c), glucose management indicator (GMI), and cHbA1c compared with laboratory HbA1c were (median [interquartile range]): 1.01 (0.50, 1.75), 0.46 (0.21, 084) and 0.26 (0.12, 0.46), giving an average bias of 0.6, 0.4 and 0.0, respectively, in National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP) % unit. For eHbA1c and GMI only 25% and 54% of subjects were within ±0.5% of laboratory HbA1c values, whereas 82% of cHbA1c were within ±0.5% of laboratory HbA1c results. Conclusions: Our data show the superior performance of cHbA1c compared with eHbA1c and GMI at reflecting laboratory HbA1c. These data indicate that cHbA1c can be potentially used instead in laboratory HbA1c, at least in younger individuals with T1D.

Metformin: Is it Still the First Line in Type 2 Diabetes Management Algorithm?

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has an ever-growing prevalence worldwide, affecting 1 in 11 adults. It continues to significantly impact patients in terms of morbidity and mortality, in addition to impairing quality of life while adding to the spiralling healthcare costs. Metformin was first used over half a century ago, and for the past two decades, it has been considered first-line oral therapy to treat patients with T2DM, in whom lifestyle measures failed to improve glycaemic control. Early landmark studies supported a glycaemic benefit with metformin use with a relatively safe adverse effect profile, particularly with avoidance of hypoglycaemia. Moreover, studies have indicated other potential beneficial role for metformin on organs typically affected by diabetes complications. However, more recently, with the discovery of newer hypoglycaemic agents and the wealth of data provided by large-scale cardiovascular safety studies, algorithms for the treatment of patients with T2DM have become increasingly complex. Indeed, recent guidelines challenge current thinking and advocate the use of agents other than metformin as first-line agents in those with higher cardiovascular risk, potentially unseating metformin from its long-held throne. This narrative review aims to summarize the background and origins of metformin, assess its role in the current management of patients with T2DM, highlighting the clinical efficacy and safety profile of this agent. Also, the position of metformin in the clinical algorithms is discussed in light of the most recent evidence in the field, helping with an ever-increasing shift towards individualized patient care to maximize benefits and minimize risks.

Body mass index, estimated glucose disposal rate and vascular complications in type 1 diabetes: Beyond glycated haemoglobin

AIMS

To understand the relationship between insulin resistance (IR), assessed as estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), and microvascular/macrovascular complications in people with type 1 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of type 1 diabetes were included in this cross-sectional study. BMI was categorised into normal weight (18.0-24.9 kg m^-2 ), overweight (25.0-29.9 kg m^-2 ) and obese groups (≥30.0 kg m^-2 ). We categorised eGDR into four groups: eGDR >8, 6-7.9, 4-5.9 and <4 mg kg^-1  min^-1 . Multiple logistic regression was used to identify associations with vascular complications, after adjusting for relevant confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 2151 individuals with type 1 diabetes were studied. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] age was 41.0 [29.0, 55.0] with diabetes duration of 20.0 [11, 31] years. Odds ratio (OR) for retinopathy and nephropathy in obese compared with normal weight individuals was 1.64 (95% CI: 1.24-2.19; p = 0.001) and 1.62 (95% CI: 1.10-2.39; p = 0.015), while the association with cardiovascular disease just failed to reach statistical significance (OR 1.66 [95% CI: 0.97-2.86; p = 0.066]). Comparing individuals with eGDR ≥8 mg kg^-1  min^-1 and <4 mg kg^-1  min^-1 showed OR for retinopathy, nephropathy and macrovascular disease of 4.84 (95% CI: 3.36-6.97; p < 0.001), 8.35 (95% CI: 4.86-14.34; p < 0.001) and 13.22 (95% CI: 3.10-56.38; p < 0.001), respectively. Individuals with the highest eGDR category (≥8 mg kg^-1  min^-1 ) had the lowest complication rates irrespective of HbA_1c levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is prevalent in type 1 diabetes and diabetes complications are not only related to glucose control. IR, assessed as eGDR, is strongly associated with both microvascular and macrovascular complications, regardless of HbA_1c levels.