ABSTRACT
Introduction Various markers for diabetes have been identified in this new era of medicine, the most recent being adiponectin, which is primarily secreted from adipose tissue and has anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-atherogenic properties. It is also known to increase insulin sensitivity. Adiponectin deficiency or decreased secretion causes a variety of complications, including insulin resistance and the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). One such complication of T2DM is endothelial dysfunction, which leads to decreased synthesis of nitric oxide (NO), another potent marker that normally disrupts key events in the progression of atherosclerosis. Aims and objectives The aim of the study was to compare and correlate serum adiponectin and nitric oxide levels with glycemic status in patients with T2DM and healthy controls. Materials and methods This comparative cross-sectional study included known cases of type II diabetes under group I and healthy age-matched controls under group II. Serum levels of adiponectin and nitric oxide were assessed in both the groups along with glycemic status [fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)] and these parameters were compared between both groups using a t-test. Adiponectin and NO levels were correlated using Pearson's correlation with glycemic status in group I. Results The mean adiponectin levels in group I were 5.94 ± 1.490 µg/mL, which was significantly (p<0.00) less than in group II, 10.30 ±1.669 µg/mL. The mean NO levels in group I (42.98 ± 6.300 µmol/L) were also significantly (p<0.00) less than in group II (56.126 ± 7.579 µmol/L). FBS and HbA1C levels were significantly higher in group I than in group II. Conclusion Adiponectin and NO levels were significantly reduced in individuals with T2DM when compared to healthy controls. Therapeutic interventions that increase adiponectin and NO levels may be useful targets for improving diabetes control and reducing complications.
