A thirty year journey in the polyol pathway.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Diabetic Complications Research
• Enzyme Function

Background:

• The polyol theory links high glucose to diabetic complications.
• Aldose reductase (AR) is implicated in polyol pathway activity.
• Early research identified polyols in sugar cataracts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To trace the historical development of the aldose reductase concept in diabetic complications.
• To review evidence supporting AR's role in sugar cataracts and other diabetic issues.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of scientific literature.
• Analysis of early findings on polyols and cataracts.
• Examination of aldose reductase inhibitor studies in animal models.

Main Results:

• The polyol theory explains sugar cataract formation.
• Aldose reductase inhibitors effectively prevent sugar cataracts in experimental models.
• Animal studies show AR inhibitors can prevent diabetic nerve and retinal damage.

Conclusions:

• Aldose reductase plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of sugar-induced cataracts.
• Evidence suggests aldose reductase may also contribute to other diabetic complications, such as nerve and retinal damage.
• Further research into aldose reductase inhibitors is warranted for managing diabetic complications.