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Heparin cofactor II in diabetic patients
C Duboscq1, I Quintana, J Barros
1Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Buenos Aires University, Argentina.
Summary
Heparin cofactor II (HCII) activity is significantly reduced in type I diabetes patients with high glycosylated hemoglobin. However, HCII antigen levels remain unchanged, suggesting a functional impairment rather than a deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Endocrinology
- Hematology
Background:
- Type I diabetes is associated with altered protein function.
- Heparin cofactor II (HCII) plays a crucial role in anticoagulation.
- Glycosylated hemoglobin reflects long-term glycemic control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate heparin cofactor II (HCII) activity and antigen levels in type I diabetic patients.
- To assess the impact of high glycosylated hemoglobin on HCII function.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of HCII activity and antigen levels.
- Electrophoretic analysis of HCII.
- Comparison between normal subjects and type I diabetic patients with varying glycosylated hemoglobin levels.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in HCII activity was observed in diabetic patients with high glycosylated hemoglobin (83 +/- 7%) compared to controls (95 +/- 17%).
- Plasma HCII antigen levels were not significantly decreased in these patients.
- Electrophoretic patterns did not show significant alterations.
Conclusions:
- Type I diabetes, particularly with poor glycemic control, leads to a functional impairment of heparin cofactor II (HCII).
- The reduction in HCII activity suggests a potential link between hyperglycemia and impaired anticoagulation in diabetic patients.