NAMPT, IL-6, and vaspin gene expressions and serum protein levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus and related complication.

Background/aim: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common type of diabetes and occurs due to insufficient insulin secretion or inability to use existing insulin and the effects of environmental factors. Although there are many studies on the pathophysiology of T2DM, the mechanisms contributing to the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction have not been completely elucidated. Some adipokines secreted from adipose tissue, which are the primary regulators of insulin resistance, affect immune and inflammatory functions. Altered adipokine profiles have been observed in obesity and T2DM, leading to severe metabolic risks and changes in insulin sensitivity.

Materials and methods: This study used quantitative PCR and ELISA techniques to analyze samples from individuals without diabetes (control group) and with T2DM (macrovascular and microvascular complications and without complications) for at least 10 years.

Results: The mRNA expression and protein levels of NAMPT, IL-6, and vaspin genes were determined. While there was no significant difference in NAMPT, IL-6, and vaspin mRNA expression levels between diabetic groups, there was a significant decrease between the patient and control groups (p < 0.001). For serum protein levels, NAMPT protein levels decreased significantly in the uncomplicated group, while IL-6 and vaspin protein levels increased significantly in both microvascular and macrovascular complication groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The correlations between gene expressions, clinical parameters, and protein levels are crucial to understanding the implications of the findings.