Inflammation is a point of concern for diabetics as it can lead to some complications, including cardiovascular disease. In fact, diabetics are 2 to 4 times more likely to die from heart disease than non-diabetics. What’s worse, cardiovascular issues can develop even when you keep your blood sugar levels under control. Other conditions associated with diabetes, such as high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels, are what ultimately lead to heart problems.
Research Finds an Anti-Inflammatory Factor
There may eventually be new treatments for preventing and treating diseases associated with inflammation thanks to research by doctors at Joslin Diabetes Center. They have been studying the process that leads to cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetic mice.
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The Disease Process
Those who have diabetes have high levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides in their bodies.
High glucose and lipid levels in the blood also activate some protein molecules called Protein Kinase C (PKC). These molecules are primarily responsible for causing an inflammatory response that is meant to activate the immune system. It activates immune cells called monocytes, which travel to the arteries and become macrophages.
These cells “eat” the excess fats. However, the macrophages can get stuck to your arterial walls causing them to thicken and narrow. Of course, inflammation from PKC can also make the arterial disease worse.
The Answer is In the Process
When the researchers studied this process in mice, they found that not all types of PKC molecules are inflammatory. A molecule called, PKC-Delta, that is activated during the process helps suppress the number of macrophages that eat fats. This can help reduce inflammation or keep it under control.
It appears that PKC-Delta is activated by lipids, or fats, rather than excess glucose. It could have potential in treating metabolic conditions throughout the body. For instance, it could help prevent inflammation due to obesity. Suppressing this molecule may also be useful in speeding wound healing and improving insulin sensitivity.
Obviously, more research is needed to fully explore the potential of this natural anti-inflammatory produced in the body. However, it could be very useful for preventing cardiovascular disease in diabetics.
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[expand title=”References“]
Cardiovascular Disease & Diabetes. URL Link. Accessed September 21, 2017.
Finding A Natural Defense against Clogged Arteries. URL Link. Accessed September 21, 2017.
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