Impact of diabetes on cellular connections: Pathological insights and emerging therapeutic targets

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome Clinical Research and Reviews

Abstract

Background: Cell junctions play a pivotal role in the normal functioning of tissues. The alterations in the expression or structure of these junctions are linked to several pathologies including diabetes mellitus and its secondary complications. Therefore, this review discusses the implications of diabetes mellitus on cell junctions across different organs and tissues. Methodology: A systematic review of PubMed and other relevant search sources was conducted using relevant keywords in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. In addition, the reference lists of all included full texts were meticulously reviewed to find additional reports. Results: Among 646 initially identified articles, 323 were found relevant and have been included in this review. The findings of the review suggested that hyperglycemia induces hyperphosphorylation of cell junctional proteins leading to mis-localization, downregulation and impaired intracellular communication. Although multiple junctions are affected, connexin-based gap junctions appear to be consistently affected across various tissues. This highlights their potential as a therapeutic target for mitigating diabetes mellitus and its associated complications. Conclusions: Overall, this review highlights the types of cell junctions affected in diabetes mellitus across different tissues. Moreover, integration of cell junction-targeted interventions along with standard glycemic control regimens might provide synergistic benefits to prevent secondary diabetic complications.

DOI

10.1016/j.dsx.2025.103300

Publication Date

8-1-2025

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