Immunosuppressive agents in diabetes treatment: Hope or despair?

Abstract

Exploration of immunosuppressive agents for the treatment of diabetes is a burgeoning field that has captured the attention of the medical community. The innovative approach of using these agents to combat diabetes is driven by their diverse capabilities to regulate the immune system, which is pivotal for disease pathogenesis. The primary objective is to enhance the management of blood glucose levels, which is a critical factor in the daily life of diabetic patients. This comprehensive review delves into the therapeutic horizons opened by immunosuppressive agents, particularly their potential impact on type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, and their utility in the transplantation process. The complex etiology of diabetes, which involves a delicate interplay of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors, presents a multifaceted target landscape for these therapies. The agents discussed in the review, including CD3 inhibitors, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4-immunoglobulin G, Janus kinase inhibitors, anti-thymocyte globulin, tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors, CD20 inhibitors, alefacept, and alemtuzumab, each bring a unique mechanism to the table, offering a tailored approach to immune modulation. As research progresses, emphasis is being placed on evaluating the long-term efficacy and safety of these agents to pave the way for more personalized and effective diabetes management strategies.