The metabolic impact of type 2 diabetes on the human heart is poorly understood. Scientists have various, disparate data. For example, it is known that glucose uptake increases in heart failure, but diabetes reduces the sensitivity of glucose transporters to insulin—the proteins that transport glucose into and out of heart muscle cells.
A new study by scientists from the University of Sydney has demonstrated the progression of heart failure in the setting of diabetes. Initially, this was caused by increased strain on the mitochondria. Subsequently, the scientists also discovered a decrease in the production of structural proteins critical for heart muscle and calcium absorption in coronary heart disease, as well as the formation of fibrous tissue.
"We've now established a link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease at the molecular level and understand how it affects energy production in the heart, as well as its structure. Therefore, we can now begin to explore new avenues for treatment and diagnostics," concluded co-author Sean Lal.
Previously, other scientists discovered an unexpected cause of vascular disease in diabetes and obesity. It turned out to be a deficiency of certain fats, not an excess.
