Targeting inflammation to reduce ASCVD in type 2 diabetes

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Immunology

Background:

• Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the primary cause of mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
• T2DM is characterized by a pro-inflammatory state, suggesting inflammation's critical role in ASCVD development.
• Investigating anti-inflammatory strategies is crucial for managing ASCVD risk in T2DM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of anti-inflammatory interventions in reducing ASCVD events in T2DM patients.
• To identify beneficial therapeutic strategies for ASCVD prevention within the T2DM population.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of PubMed literature.
• Keywords used: T2DM, ASCVD, Inflammation, and clinical trials.
• Analysis of data from relevant clinical trials on anti-inflammatory therapies.

Main Results:

• Mediterranean diet, GLP1 receptor agonists, and anti-IL-1 monoclonal antibody demonstrated a reduction in ASCVD events in T2DM.
• Mediterranean diet and GLP1 receptor agonists were found to be safe interventions.
• Anti-IL-1 therapy was associated with an increased risk of mortality due to infections.

Conclusions:

• Mediterranean diet and GLP1 receptor agonists are recommended as safe, effective mainstays for ASCVD risk reduction in T2DM.
• Further research is needed to determine the benefit-to-risk ratio of biologics targeting inflammation in T2DM patients.
• The safety profile of anti-IL-1 therapy necessitates caution and limits its current use in this population.