Abstracts » Health

The pathophysiology of diabetic complications: how much does the glucose hypothesis explain?

Article Abstract:

An elevated blood sugar level, in addition to other potential factors, probably plays a major role in the development of complications associated with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Complications include small vessel disorders of the eye, kidney, and nerves. All of these complications seem to occur in areas with small vessels where blood sugar can accumulate without insulin control and seem to respond to treatments that reduce blood sugar levels. However, some aspects of these complications are independent of blood sugar levels. Other factors that may contribute to vessel disease in patients with NIDDM include impaired protein metabolism and growth factors. An additional theory that may explain the accumulation of blood sugar involves action by the enzyme aldose reductase. However, attempts to reverse the activity of this enzyme have not been conclusive.

Complications and side effects, Hyperglycemia

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Inhaled insulin for type 2 diabetes: solution or distraction?

Article Abstract:

People with type 2 diabetes may not need to take so much insulin and administering the insulin as an aerosol into the lungs could have adverse consequences. A study published in 2001 found that inhaled insulin could lower blood sugar but the dose must be very high since insulin is not efficiently absorbed by the lungs.

Editorial

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Treating type 2 diabetes with inhaled insulin

Article Abstract:

Inhaled insulin before every meal and an insulin injection at bedtime can control blood sugar levels in people with type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes. The insulin appears to have no serious adverse effect on the lungs.

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