Role of neutrophils in type 2 diabetes and associated atherosclerosis

Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2021 Dec:141:106098. doi: 10.1016/j.biocel.2021.106098. Epub 2021 Oct 13.

Abstract

The development of cardiovascular diseases associated with Type-2 diabetes remains one of the most challenging public health burdens in the developed world. Early onset of metabolic deficiencies, namely dysregulated glucose homeostasis, peripheral insulin resistance, and impaired insulin production are accompanied by both innate and adaptive immune responses that culminate in a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation. Neutrophils are a critical component of the innate immune system which offer frontline defense against pathogens through a variety of potent effector functions. Recent data indicate an essential role of neutrophils in various disease processes that contribute to the development of Type-2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. In this brief review, we aim to distill the most relevant clinical and pre-clinical literature that investigates the role of neutrophils as an important mediator for the Type-2 diabetes/atherosclerosis connection.

Keywords: Atherosclerosis; Hyperglycemia; Neutrophils; Type-2 diabetes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Atherosclerosis
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2*
  • Humans
  • Neutrophils*