A Review Of Diabetes Mellitus: Types, Pathophysiology, And The Role Of Oxidative Stress.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) encompasses a group of metabolic disorders characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to impaired insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The pathophysiology of diabetes is multifaceted, involving both genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Type 1 diabetes is primarily an autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells, while Type 2 diabetes is associated with insulin resistance and eventual β-cell dysfunction. A critical aspect of both types is the role of oxidative stress, which arises from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defenses. Elevated glucose levels lead to increased ROS generation, contributing to cellular damage, inflammation, and complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases. This review explores the intricate relationship between diabetes pathophysiology and oxidative stress, highlighting the mechanisms through which oxidative damage exacerbates insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. Understanding these pathways is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating oxidative stress and improving outcomes in diabetic patients.