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DIABETES AND PARKINSON'S DISEASE: EVIDENCE OF THE RELATIONSHIP
Rikhsiboeva Zilola
Bachelor of National University of Uzbekistan
Zaynieva Makhbuba
Master of National University of Uzbekistan
Murodillayeva Sabrina
Master of National University of Uzbekistan
sabrinamurodillayeva6@gmail.com
Kuziev Sherali
Associate Professor of the
National University of Uzbekistan, PhD
Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus and Parkinson's disease are among the most pressing problems
of modern medicine, negatively affecting the quality of life of millions of people. While
diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized primarily by elevated blood glucose levels [1],
Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system,
mainly manifested by movement disorders [2]. Recent studies have shown that there is a
correlation between these two common diseases [3, 4], which raises the need for a deeper
study of their pathogenesis and treatment strategies. This thesis reviews the main features of
diabetes mellitus and Parkinson's disease, the evidence indicating their association, and the
potential mechanisms of this association.
Keywords:
Diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Neurodegenerative diseases, Insulin resistance,
Oxidative stress, Alpha-synuclein, Mitochondrial dysfunction
1. Diabetes: An Overview
Diabetes is divided into two main types: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. In type 1
diabetes, the pancreas stops producing insulin, while in type 2 diabetes, the div becomes
resistant to insulin or cannot produce enough insulin. In both cases, blood glucose levels rise,
which can damage various organs and systems. Common symptoms of diabetes include
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frequent urination, thirst, hunger, fatigue, and weight loss. Long-term complications include
damage to the eyes, kidneys, cardiovascular system, and nervous system [1].
2. Parkinson's Disease: Key Features
Parkinson's disease is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the
substantia nigra of the brain. The loss of these neurons results in a deficiency of the
neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a key role in controlling movement. The main
symptoms of Parkinson's disease include tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement
(bradykinesia), and balance problems. As the disease progresses, speech, swallowing, and
cognitive functions may also be impaired. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disease
that occurs primarily in old age, and its exact causes are not fully understood, but genetic
factors, environmental influences, and oxidative stress are thought to play a role [2].
3. The Relationship Between Diabetes and Parkinson's Disease
Epidemiological studies conducted in recent years have shown that patients with diabetes are
at increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to controls. Similarly, some
patients with Parkinson's disease have been shown to have impaired glucose metabolism, i.e.,
a predisposition to diabetes [4]. The association between these two diseases may be
explained by a number of common pathophysiological mechanisms.
3.1. Insulin Resistance and Neurodegeneration
Insulin plays an important role not only in controlling blood glucose levels but also in brain
function. Insulin acts as a neurotrophic factor in the brain and supports the survival and
function of neurons. The insulin resistance seen in diabetes can also occur in the brain and
lead to impaired insulin signaling. These impairments can lead to neuronal damage and
neurodegenerative processes, which may contribute to the development of Parkinson's
disease [5].
3.2. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation play important roles in the pathogenesis of
diabetes and Parkinson's disease. High blood glucose levels can exacerbate oxidative stress
and lead to cellular damage [5]. Similarly, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are also
observed in Parkinson's disease [6]. These common mechanisms may enhance the effects of
both diseases and accelerate their progression [3, 4].
3.3. Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Mitochondria are the energy-producing centers of cells. Mitochondrial dysfunction is
observed in diabetes and Parkinson's disease. In diabetes, high glucose levels can increase
oxidative stress in mitochondria, leading to their dysfunction [5]. In Parkinson's disease,
mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to the death of dopamine-producing neurons [7]. This
common disruption of energy metabolism may contribute to the development of both
diseases [3, 4].
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3.4. Alpha-Synuclein and Glucose Metabolism
Alpha-synuclein is a key feature of Parkinson's disease, and its accumulation in the brain
leads to neuronal degeneration. Recent studies have shown that the metabolism and
accumulation of alpha-synuclein may be linked to glucose metabolism. Changes in glucose
levels in diabetes may affect the accumulation of alpha-synuclein and increase the risk of
developing Parkinson's disease [6].
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is a clear association between diabetes and Parkinson's disease,
supported by epidemiological data and shared pathophysiological mechanisms. Factors such
as insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and
impaired alpha-synuclein metabolism may explain the interaction between these two
diseases. Continued research in this area will help develop strategies for the prevention,
early diagnosis, and effective treatment of diabetes and Parkinson's disease. Co-management
of these two diseases is important to improve the overall health and quality of life of patients.
References
1.
American Diabetes Association. (2023). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—
2023. Diabetes Care, 46(Supplement 1), S1-S267.
2.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Parkinson's Disease:
Hope Through Research. National Institutes of Health.
3.
Bharath, S., & D'Souza, M. (2019). Diabetes and Parkinson's Disease: A Review of
the Association. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 13(1), ZE01-ZE05.
4.
de Oliveira, J. E., da Rocha, M. J., & de Carvalho, J. F. (2018). Parkinson's disease
and diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria,
76(12), 819-826.
5.
Avogaro, A., Fadini, G. P., & de Kreutzenberg, S. V. (2018). Insulin resistance,
inflammation, and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetes Care,
41(Supplement 2), S116-S123.
6.
Brundin, P., Melki, R., & Duda, J. E. (2010). Alpha-synuclein and Parkinson's
disease: a critical review. Journal of Parkinson's Disease, 1(1), 1-28.
7.
Rothermundt, M., & Arendt, T. (2004). Mitochondria in Parkinson's disease. Annals
of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1035, 111-122.
