Advanced Glycation End Products and Oxidative Stress in a Hyperglycaemic Environment

Protein glycation is the random, nonenzymatic reaction of sugar and protein induced by diabetes and ageing; this process is quite different from glycosylation mediated by the enzymatic reactions catalysed by glycosyltransferases. Schiff bases form advanced glycation end products (AGEs) via intermediates, such as Amadori compounds. Although these AGEs form various molecular species, only a few of their structures have been determined. AGEs bind to different AGE receptors on the cell membrane and transmit signals to the cell. Signal transduction via the receptor of AGEs produces reactive oxygen species in cells, and oxidative stress is responsible for the onset of diabetic complications. This chapter introduces the molecular mechanisms of disease onset due to oxidative stress, including reactive oxygen species, caused by AGEs generated by protein glycation in a hyperglycaemic environment.