Glycation and advanced glycation end-product formation with icodextrin and dextrose

To review protein glycation and advanced glycation end-product formation with particular reference to its occurrence in the peritoneum following exposure to peritoneal dialysis fluid.

Articles identified through searches on MEDLINE and BIDS and references cited therein.

Studies on the interaction of amino groups with glucose, maltose and glucose polymers. Studies containing evidence of peritoneal advanced glycation end-product formation.

Studies evaluated as to whether they are in vivo, ex vivo or in vitro under non-physiological or physiological conditions.

Protein glycation is slower with maltose and glucose polymers than with equimolar glucose. Advanced glycation end-product formation occurs with all three sugars, but to a greater extent after standard heat sterilization of dialysis fluid and to a lesser extent in heat sterilized fluids containing icodextrin rather than glucose. Glucose degradation products significantly contribute to protein-linked advanced glycation end-product-like fluorescence. Histology and immunohistochemistry demonstrate diabetiform changes and advanced glycation end-products in the peritoneal membrane following exposure to glucose-containing peritoneal dialysis fluids. Their presence is likely to be detrimental to peritoneal function and may contribute to loss of ultrafiltration.

Advanced glycation end-product formation is lower but still significant with heat sterilized peritoneal dialysis fluid containing icodextrin than with glucose. More research is needed to investigate the interaction of glucose degradation products and glucose polymers with proteins and the possible consequences of advanced glycation end-product formation on peritoneal function.