OXIDATIVE STRESS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES: MECHANISMS AND THE POTENTIAL OF ANTIOXIDANT THERAPY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1259/cfjnqd73Keywords:
Type 2 diabetes, oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, polyphenols, alpha-lipoic acid, diabetic complications.Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. Alongside insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism, oxidative stress plays a central role in its development and complications. Oxidative stress arises from excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced antioxidant defense, leading to cellular damage. This article reviews the biochemical mechanisms of oxidative stress in T2DM, its harmful effects on lipids, proteins, and DNA, and the role of antioxidants as potential therapeutic agents. Vitamins C and E, glutathione, polyphenols, and alpha-lipoic acid have shown beneficial effects in reducing oxidative stress and improving metabolic balance. Although antioxidants cannot completely cure diabetes, they may serve as valuable complementary strategies to limit complications and improve patient health.
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