Diabetes and Cardiovascular Complications: The Epidemics Continue

Purpose of Review The cardiovascular complications of type 1 and 2 diabetes are major causes of morbidity and mortality. Extensive efforts have been made to maximize glycemic control; this strategy reduces certain manifestations of cardiovascular complications. There are drawbacks, however, as intensive glycemic control does not impart perennial protective benefits, and these efforts are not without potential adverse sequelae, such as hypoglycemic events. Recent Findings Here, the authors have focused on updates into key areas under study for mechanisms driving these cardiovascular disorders in diabetes, including roles for epigenetics and gene expression, interferon networks, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Updates on the cardioprotective roles of the new classes of hyperglycemia-targeting therapies, the sodium glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors and the agonists of the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor system, are reviewed. In summary, insights from ongoing research and the cardioprotective benefits of the newer type 2 diabetes therapies are providing novel areas for therapeutic opportunities in diabetes and CVD.

Automated summary

This review highlights the cardiovascular complications of diabetes, efforts in glycemic control, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of intensive glycemic control. The role of epigenetics, gene expression, interferon networks, mitochondrial dysfunction in driving cardiovascular disorders in diabetes is discussed, along with updates on cardioprotective therapies for hyperglycemia. Ongoing research is providing new therapeutic opportunities in diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.