Sclerostin protein plays an important role in maintaining cardiovascular health in patients with type 2 diabetes. This has been shown by a study published in the journal. Cardiovascular Diabetology.
Atherosclerosis involves the buildup of cholesterol and fat in the arteries, leading to plaque formation that impairs blood flow and increases the risk of serious cardiovascular disease.
The new study included 139 patients with type 2 diabetes (48 with cardiovascular disease and 91 without cardiovascular disease) and 121 healthy people. Sclerostin protein levels were significantly higher in patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Greater protein production was associated with less calcium buildup in vessel walls and less inflammation; which are risk factors for severe atherosclerosis.
The results show that people with type 2 diabetes produce excess sclerostin to protect their blood vessels. Previous studies have shown that antibodies that block this protein can slow bone loss in osteoporosis. The new data means these drugs should be used with caution in patients with type 2 diabetes as they may increase cardiovascular risk.
Russian scientists before to create A way to detect diabetes visually.