[The role of methylglyoxal in the development of diabetic complications]

The formation of methylglyoxal is increased during hyperglycemia associated with diabetes mellitus. Enhanced methylglyoxal concentration in biological systems is associated with increased reversible and irreversible modification of protein. The chronic exposure to high methylglyoxal concentrations appears to be linked to the development of diabetic complications. Intervention with aldose reductase inhibitors or aminoguanidine, which is an efficient scavenger of methylglyoxal, in diabetes mellitus may prevent increased methylglyoxal concentration.