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Study Published in Cardiovascular Diabetology Sheds Light on Sclerostin’s Impact on Vascular Health
Researchers have unveiled significant insights into the role of sclerostin in safeguarding against atherosclerosis in individuals with type 2 diabetes, according to a study published in the journal Cardiovascular Diabetology. Sclerostin, typically associated with bone formation regulation, has emerged as a protective factor in vascular health, particularly for those with type 2 diabetes.
Atherosclerosis, a common complication of type 2 diabetes, involves the deposition of substances like cholesterol and fats in the arteries, leading to plaque formation. These plaques can diminish blood flow, escalating the risk of severe cardiovascular diseases, the researchers explained.
The study, which included 121 controls and 139 patients with type 2 diabetes (comprising 48 with cardiovascular disease and 91 without), uncovered significantly elevated levels of sclerostin in patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This observation suggests a potential connection between this protein and atherosclerosis.
Moreover, the researchers demonstrated that sclerostin plays a role in reducing arterial calcification, a factor linked to the onset of atherosclerosis.
Conducting ‘in vitro’ experiments on vascular smooth muscle cells to replicate pathophysiological conditions of patients with type 2 diabetes, the researchers from ibs.GRANADA, San Cecilio University Hospital in Granada, the Centre for Networked Biomedical Research on Frailty and Healthy Ageing (CIBERFES) of the Carlos III Health Institute, and the University of Granada (UGR) discovered intriguing results.
“Sclerostin overexpression reduced calcium deposits, decreased cell proliferation and inflammation, and promoted cell survival,” stated the study.
These findings open up new avenues for understanding the intricate mechanisms involved in vascular health and atherosclerosis in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Sclerostin, previously associated mainly with bone health, now emerges as a potential player in mitigating cardiovascular risks, offering hope for future research and therapeutic interventions in managing complications related to diabetes.
