[Diabetes mellitus and the central nervous system]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Disorders

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasingly recognized for its impact on the central nervous system (CNS).
• The term 'diabetic encephalopathy' requires nuanced understanding.
• Cognitive impairments are a significant complication of DM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of CNS involvement in DM.
• To examine factors contributing to cerebral changes and cognitive decline in DM.
• To explore the role of insulin in the CNS and its relation to neurodegenerative diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on cognitive functions in Type 1 and Type 2 DM.
• Analysis of brain structural imaging data using advanced technologies.
• Examination of factors influencing cerebral changes and cognitive impairments.

Main Results:

• Hyperglycemia demonstrates a more significant impact on CNS changes than hypoglycemia.
• Factors beyond blood glucose control contribute to cognitive impairments.
• Central insulin resistance is linked to Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusions:

• Intranasal insulin administration is an emerging, promising therapeutic strategy for cognitive decline.
• This approach may benefit both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals at risk of cognitive impairment.
• Further research into intranasal insulin for CNS protection is warranted.