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Diabetes and Its Complications: From Molecular Mechanisms to Novel Therapeutic Approaches

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 December 2024) | Viewed by 16556

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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia due insulin insufficiency or impaired insulin action. Diabetes could affects the quality of life and survival of patients. Recent data from the International Diabetes Federation showed that by 2045 it is expected to reach 783 million patients. Diabetes carries an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases including kidney failure. Different elements of the environment have been posited to influence the appearance of diabetes mellitus. Sleep and diet are key factors in regulating glucose metabolism, which is also significantly affected by physical activity. Air pollution has been shown to change endothelial function, and systemic inflammation, and trigger insulin resistance. The genetic background determines the predisposition to develop diabetes while the autoimmune related to diabetes seems to be also determined by environmental triggers, such as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences focuses on the molecular and metabolic mechanism related to the appearance and complications of diabetes, emphasizing on environmental factors, and possible applications related to interventions and therapy.

Dr. Andrea Paola Rojas Gil
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • diabetes
  • diabetes complications
  • enviromental factors
  • endocrine disruptors
  • nutrition
  • sleep
  • therapy
  • molecular mechanisms

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 3522 KiB  
Article
Repurposing Niclosamide to Modulate Renal RNA-Binding Protein HuR for the Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy in db/db Mice
by Lili Zhuang, Wenjin Liu, Xiao-Qing Tsai, Connor Outtrim, Anna Tang, Zhou Wang and Yufeng Huang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(17), 9651; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25179651 - 6 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1316
Abstract
Hu antigen R (HuR) plays a key role in regulating genes critical to the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). This study investigates the therapeutic potential of niclosamide (NCS) as an HuR inhibitor in DN. Uninephrectomized mice were assigned to four groups: normal control; [...] Read more.
Hu antigen R (HuR) plays a key role in regulating genes critical to the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). This study investigates the therapeutic potential of niclosamide (NCS) as an HuR inhibitor in DN. Uninephrectomized mice were assigned to four groups: normal control; untreated db/db mice terminated at 14 and 22 weeks, respectively; and db/db mice treated with NCS (20 mg/kg daily via i.p.) from weeks 18 to 22. Increased HuR expression was observed in diabetic kidneys from db/db mice, which was mitigated by NCS treatment. Untreated db/db mice exhibited obesity, progressive hyperglycemia, albuminuria, kidney hypertrophy and glomerular mesangial matrix expansion, increased renal production of fibronectin and a-smooth muscle actin, and decreased glomerular WT-1+-podocytes and nephrin expression. NCS treatment did not affect mouse body weight, but reduced blood glucose and HbA1c levels and halted the DN progression observed in untreated db/db mice. Renal production of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers (NF-κBp65, TNF-a, MCP-1) and urine MDA levels increased during disease progression in db/db mice but were halted by NCS treatment. Additionally, the Wnt1-signaling-pathway downstream factor, Wisp1, was identified as a key downstream mediator of HuR-dependent action and found to be markedly increased in db/db mouse kidneys, which was normalized by NCS treatment. These findings suggest that inhibition of HuR with NCS is therapeutic for DN by improving hyperglycemia, renal inflammation, and oxidative stress. The reduction in renal Wisp1 expression also contributes to its renoprotective effects. This study supports the potential of repurposing HuR inhibitors as a novel therapy for DN. Full article
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13 pages, 667 KiB  
Article
A One-Month Advanced Glycation End Products—Restricted Diet Improves CML, RAGE, Metabolic and Inflammatory Profile in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease Undergoing Haemodialysis
by Adamantia Aroni, Paraskevi Detopoulou, Demetrios Presvelos, Eirini Kostopoulou, Anastasios Ioannidis, George I. Panoutsopoulos, Sofia Zyga, Georgios Kosmidis, Bessie E. Spiliotis and Andrea Paola Rojas Gil
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(16), 8893; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25168893 - 15 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1418
Abstract
Exogenous and endogenous advanced glycation end products (AGEs) contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of renal disease. This is a one-month controlled dietary counseling trial that restricts nutritional AGEs in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing haemodialysis (n = 22 participants [...] Read more.
Exogenous and endogenous advanced glycation end products (AGEs) contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of renal disease. This is a one-month controlled dietary counseling trial that restricts nutritional AGEs in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing haemodialysis (n = 22 participants in the intervention and n = 20 participants in the control group). Haematological, biochemical markers, the soluble form of the receptor for AGEs (sRAGE), and carboxymethyl lysine (CML) were measured at baseline and at follow-up. Mononuclear cells were isolated and the protein expression of RAGE and the inflammatory marker COX-2 was measured using Western immunoblotting. The intervention group presented a lower increase in CML compared to the control group (12.39% median change in the intervention vs. 69.34% in the control group, p = 0.013), while RAGE (% mean change −56.54 in the intervention vs. 46.51 in the control group, p < 0.001) and COX-2 (% mean change −37.76 in the intervention vs. 0.27 in the control group, p < 0.001) were reduced compared to the control group. sRAGE was reduced in both groups. In addition, HbA1c (at two months), total cholesterol, and triglycerides were reduced in the intervention versus the control group. The adoption of healthy cooking methods deserves further research as a possible way of modulating inflammatory markers in patients with CKD. Full article
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16 pages, 4917 KiB  
Article
Eucalyptol Ameliorates Retinal Microvascular Defects through Modulating ER Stress and Angiopoietin–Tie Signaling in Diabetic Eyes
by Dong Yeon Kim, Sin-Hye Park, Zaee Yoon, Jimin Kim, Min-Kyung Kang and Young-Hee Kang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(14), 7826; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25147826 - 17 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1416
Abstract
Loss of the inner blood–retinal barrier (BRB) integrity is a main feature of ocular diseases such as diabetic macular edema. However, there is a lack of clarity on how inner BRB function is modulated within the diabetic retina. The current study examined whether [...] Read more.
Loss of the inner blood–retinal barrier (BRB) integrity is a main feature of ocular diseases such as diabetic macular edema. However, there is a lack of clarity on how inner BRB function is modulated within the diabetic retina. The current study examined whether eucalyptol inhibited inner BRB destruction and aberrant retinal angiogenesis in 33 mM glucose-exposed human retinal microvascular endothelial (RVE) cells and db/db mice. This study further examined the molecular mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction including retinal endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and angiopoietin (Ang)/Tie axis in conjunction with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Eucalyptol is a naturally occurring monoterpenoid and an achiral aromatic component of many plants including eucalyptus leaves. Nontoxic eucalyptol reduced the production of amyloid-β (Aβ) protein in glucose-loaded RVE cells and in diabetic mice. This natural compound blocked apoptosis of Aβ-exposed RVE cells in diabetic mouse eyes by targeting ER stress via the inhibition of PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP signaling. Eucalyptol promoted activation of the Ang-1/Tie-2 pathway and dual inhibition of Ang-2/VEGF in Aβ-exposed RVE cells and in diabetic eyes. Supply of eucalyptol reversed the induction of junction proteins in glucose/Aβ-exposed RVE cells within the retina and reduced permeability. In addition, oral administration of eucalyptol reduced vascular leaks in diabetic retinal vessels. Taken together, these findings clearly show that eucalyptol inhibits glucose-induced Aβ-mediated ER stress and manipulates Ang signaling in diabetic retinal vessels, which ultimately blocks abnormal angiogenesis and loss of inner BRB integrity. Therefore, eucalyptol provides new treatment strategies for diabetes-associated RVE defects through modulating diverse therapeutic targets including ER stress, Ang-1/Tie-2 signaling, and Ang-2/VEGF. Full article
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20 pages, 20927 KiB  
Article
Serotonin and Interleukin 10 Can Influence the Blood and Urine Viscosity in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Pregnancy-Specific Urinary Incontinence
by Danielle Cristina Honório França, Adenilda Cristina Honorio-França, Kênia Maria Rezende Silva, Fernanda Cristina Bérgamo Alves, Gabriela Bueno, Sarah Maria Barneze Costa, Aron Carlos de Melo Cotrim, Angélica Mércia Pascon Barbosa, Eduardo Luzía França, Marilza Vieira Cunha Rudge and The Diamater Study Group
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(24), 17125; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms242417125 - 5 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1922
Abstract
Serotonin and interleukin 10 (IL-10) may play a role in gestational diabetes mellitus. Hyperglycemic environment, the detrusor musculature of the bladder and pelvic floor muscles may become damaged, leading to urination problems and urine viscosity in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and [...] Read more.
Serotonin and interleukin 10 (IL-10) may play a role in gestational diabetes mellitus. Hyperglycemic environment, the detrusor musculature of the bladder and pelvic floor muscles may become damaged, leading to urination problems and urine viscosity in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence. Urine and blood samples were collected from pregnant women between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. The serotonin concentration and cytokine IL-10 levels were evaluated in plasma and urine. In the total blood and urine, the viscosity was evaluated in the presence and absence of exogenous serotonin and IL-10. The plasma serotonin levels decreased, while the urine serotonin levels increased in the normoglycemic incontinent (NG-I), hyperglycemic continent (GDM-C), and hyperglycemic incontinent (GDM-I) groups. The IL-10 in the plasma decreased in the GDM-I group and was higher in the urine in the NG-I and GDM-I groups. The blood viscosity was higher, independently of urinary incontinence, in the GDM groups. The serotonin increased the blood viscosity from women with GDM-C and urine in the NG-I, GDM-C, and GDM-I groups. Blood and urine in the presence of IL-10 showed a similar viscosity in all groups studied. Also, no difference was observed in the viscosity in either the blood or urine when in the presence of serotonin and IL-10. These findings suggest that serotonin and IL-10 have the potential to reduce blood viscosity in pregnant women with gestational diabetes and specific urinary incontinence, maintaining values similar to those in normoglycemic women’s blood. Full article
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17 pages, 1965 KiB  
Article
The Response of Antioxidant Enzymes and Antiapoptotic Markers to an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) in Children and Adolescents with Excess Body Weight
by Maria Efthymia Katsa, Eirini Kostopoulou, Tzortzis Nomikos, Anastasios Ioannidis, Vasileios Sarris, Spyridon Papadogiannis, Bessie E. Spiliotis and Andrea Paola Rojas Gil
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(22), 16517; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms242216517 - 20 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1413
Abstract
Oxidative stress and apoptosis are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-related diseases. This observational study investigates the antioxidant and apoptotic markers response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in a population of overweight children and adolescents, with normal (NGT) or impaired glucose [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress and apoptosis are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-related diseases. This observational study investigates the antioxidant and apoptotic markers response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in a population of overweight children and adolescents, with normal (NGT) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Glucose, insulin, and C-peptide concentrations, as well as oxidative stress (SOD, GPx3) and apoptotic markers (Apo1fas, cck18), were determined at T = 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min after glucose intake during OGTT. The lipid profile, thyroid function, insulin-like growth factor1, leptin, ghrelin, and adiponectin were also measured at baseline. The 45 participants, with a mean age of 12.15 (±2.3) years old, were divided into two subcategories: those with NGΤ (n = 31) and those with IGT (n = 14). The area under the curve (AUC) of glucose, insulin, and C-peptide was greater in children with IGT; however, only glucose differences were statistically significant. SOD and GPx3 levels were higher at all time points in the IGT children. Apo1fas and cck18 levels were higher in the NGT children at most time points, whereas Adiponectin was lower in the IGT group. Glucose increased during an OGTT accompanied by a simultaneous increase in antioxidant factors, which may reflect a compensatory mechanism against the impending increase in oxidative stress in children with IGT. Full article
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10 pages, 1217 KiB  
Article
Regulatory Roles of Histone Deacetylation in Metabolic Stress-Induced Expression of Caspase Recruitment Domain-Containing Protein 9 (CARD9) in Pancreatic β-Cells
by Mirabela Hali, Nelson Pinto, Noah Gleason and Anjaneyulu Kowluru
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(21), 15994; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms242115994 - 6 Nov 2023
Viewed by 2113
Abstract
CARD9, a scaffolding protein, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. We recently reported novel roles for CARD9 in islet β-cell dysregulation under duress of gluco (HG)- and glucolipotoxic (GLT) stress. CARD9 expression was also increased in [...] Read more.
CARD9, a scaffolding protein, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. We recently reported novel roles for CARD9 in islet β-cell dysregulation under duress of gluco (HG)- and glucolipotoxic (GLT) stress. CARD9 expression was also increased in β-cells following exposure to HG and GLT stress. The current study is aimed at understanding the putative roles of histone deacetylation in HG- and GLT-induced expression of CARD9. Using two structurally distinct inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACs), namely trichostatin (TSA) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), we provide the first evidence to suggest that the increased expression of CARD9 seen under duress of HG and GLT stress is under the regulatory control of histone deacetylation. Interestingly, the expression of protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ), a known upstream regulator of CARD9 activation, is also increased under conditions of metabolic stress. However, it is resistant to TSA and SAHA, suggesting that it is not regulated via histone deacetylation. Based on these data, we propose that targeting the appropriate HDACs, which mediate the expression (and function) of CARD9, might be the next step to further enhance our current understanding of the roles of CARD9 in islet dysfunction under metabolic stress and diabetes. Full article
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Review

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41 pages, 996 KiB  
Review
Current Therapeutic Landscape for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis
by Arun George Devasia, Adaikalavan Ramasamy and Chen Huei Leo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(4), 1778; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26041778 - 19 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1397
Abstract
In recent years, “metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease” (MASLD) has been proposed to better connect liver disease to metabolic dysfunction, which is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. MASLD affects more than 30% of individuals globally, and it is diagnosed by the [...] Read more.
In recent years, “metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease” (MASLD) has been proposed to better connect liver disease to metabolic dysfunction, which is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. MASLD affects more than 30% of individuals globally, and it is diagnosed by the combination of hepatic steatosis and obesity, type 2 diabetes, or two metabolic risk factors. MASLD begins with the buildup of extra fat, often greater than 5%, within the liver, causing liver hepatocytes to become stressed. This can proceed to a more severe form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), in 20–30% of people, where inflammation in the liver causes tissue fibrosis, which limits blood flow over time. As fibrosis worsens, MASH may lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or even liver cancer. While the pathophysiology of MASLD is not fully known, the current “multiple-hits” concept proposes that dietary and lifestyle factors, metabolic factors, and genetic or epigenetic factors contribute to elevated oxidative stress and inflammation, causing liver fibrosis. This review article provides an overview of the pathogenesis of MASLD and evaluates existing therapies as well as pharmacological drugs that are currently being studied in clinical trials for MASLD or MASH. Full article
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16 pages, 697 KiB  
Review
Novel Micro-Ribonucleic Acid Biomarkers for Early Detection of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Complications—A Literature Review
by Sara Ahmed, Haroon Adnan, Maryam A. Khawaja and Alexandra E. Butler
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(2), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26020753 - 17 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1231
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most widespread chronic diseases globally, with its prevalence expected to rise significantly in the years ahead. Previous studies on risk stratification for T2DM identify certain biomarkers, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), oral glucose tolerance testing [...] Read more.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most widespread chronic diseases globally, with its prevalence expected to rise significantly in the years ahead. Previous studies on risk stratification for T2DM identify certain biomarkers, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT), fructosamine, and glycated albumin, as key indicators for predicting the onset and progression of T2DM. However, these traditional markers have been shown to lack sensitivity and specificity and their results are difficult to analyze due to non-standardized interpretation criteria, posing significant challenges to an accurate and definitive diagnosis. The strict measures of these traditional markers may not catch gradual increases in blood sugar levels during the early stages of diabetes evolution, as these might still fall within acceptable glycemic parameters. Recent advancements in research have suggested novel micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA) as circulatory molecules that can facilitate the early detection of prediabetic conditions in high-risk groups and potentially enable prevention of the progression to T2DM. This capability makes them a very powerful tool for potentially improving population health, enhancing outcomes for many patients, and reducing the overall burden of T2DM. These promising biomarkers are small, noncoding RNA involved in the regulation of many cellular functions that have a hand in the metabolic activities of cells, making them a very useful and relevant biomarker to explore for the diagnosis and risk stratification of T2DM. This review analyzes the current literature, outlining the occurrence of miRNAs in prediabetic and diabetic individuals and their implications in predicting dysglycemic disorders. Full article
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20 pages, 1176 KiB  
Review
Dietary Restriction of Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) in Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
by Paraskevi Detopoulou, Gavriela Voulgaridou, Vasiliki Seva, Odysseas Kounetakis, Ios-Ioanna Desli, Despoina Tsoumana, Vasilios Dedes, Evridiki Papachristou, Sousana Papadopoulou and George Panoutsopoulos
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(21), 11407; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252111407 - 23 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1663
Abstract
Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) are formed through non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, nucleic acids or lipids (for example through hyperoxidation). In diabetes, elevated glucose levels provide more substrate for AGEs formation. AGEs can also be ingested through the diet from [...] Read more.
Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) are formed through non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, nucleic acids or lipids (for example through hyperoxidation). In diabetes, elevated glucose levels provide more substrate for AGEs formation. AGEs can also be ingested through the diet from foods cooked at high temperatures, or containing much sugar. The present work aimed to review all published randomized controlled trials (RCT) on low-dietary AGE (L-dAGEs) interventions in patients with diabetes. Pubmed, Scopus and Cochrane databases were searched (until 29 February 2024) with appropriate keywords (inclusion criteria: RCT, patients with diabetes, age > 18 years, outcomes related to inflammation, glucose, and lipids; exclusion criteria: non-RCTs, case-series, case reports and Letter to the Editor, or animal studies). The present review was registered to the Open Science Framework (OSF). From 7091 studies, seven were ultimately included. Bias was assessed with the updated Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. A reduction in circulating AGEs was documented in 3/3 studies. No particular differences were documented in glycemic parameters after a L-dAGEs diet. Reductions in glucose levels were observed in one out of six studies (1/6), while HbA1c and HOMA did not change in any study (0/6 and 0/3, correspondingly). Lipid profile also changed in one out of four studies (1/4). More consistent results were observed for oxidative stress (beneficial effects in 3/3 studies) and inflammatory markers (beneficial effects in 4/4 studies). Other athero-protective effects, such as adiponectin increases, were reported. Limitations included the small sample size and the fact that dietary and physical activity habits were not considered in most studies. In conclusion, a L-dAGEs pattern may minimize AGEs accumulation and have beneficial effects on oxidative stress and inflammation indices, while its effects on glycemic and lipemic parameters are inconsistent and modest in patients with diabetes. Full article
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11 pages, 600 KiB  
Review
A Brief Overview of Cholinergic and Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors in Diabetic Bladder Dysfunction
by Georgios Kallinikas, Georgios Haronis, Eirini Kallinika, Diomidis Kozyrakis, Evangelos Rodinos, Athanasios Filios, Panagiotis Filios, Despoina Mityliniou, Konstantinos Safioleas, Anastasios Zarkadas, Dimitrios Bozios, Athanasios Karmogiannis, Vasileios Konstantinopoulos, Anna Maria Konomi, Amin M. Ektesabi and James N. Tsoporis
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(19), 10704; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms251910704 - 4 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1686
Abstract
Diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD) comprises a wide spectrum of lower urinary tract symptoms that impact diabetic patients’ lives, including urinary frequency, urgency, incontinence, and incomplete bladder emptying. To relieve symptoms, anticholinergics have been widely prescribed and are considered an effective treatment. There is [...] Read more.
Diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD) comprises a wide spectrum of lower urinary tract symptoms that impact diabetic patients’ lives, including urinary frequency, urgency, incontinence, and incomplete bladder emptying. To relieve symptoms, anticholinergics have been widely prescribed and are considered an effective treatment. There is increasing evidence that diabetic patients may benefit from the use of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This narrative review aims to provide a brief overview of the pathophysiology of DBD along with a focus on cholinergic and phosphodiesterase inhibitors as therapies that benefit DBD. An examination of the literature suggests compelling avenues of research and underscores critical gaps in understanding the mechanisms underlying DBD. New tools and models, especially rodent models, are required to further elucidate the mechanisms of action of current therapies in the treatment of DBS. Full article
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