Research Projects

Type 2 diabetes is rapidly advancing into a pandemic in India due to its association with coronary artery disease (CAD). This is due to factors such as age, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, physical inactivity, and stress. Asian Indians have a higher rate of CAD than Europeans, Americans, and other Asians. Diabetes mellitus is a systemic disease with various complications, including retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Inflammatory disease, atherosclerosis, is also a diabetic complication. Interleukin (IL)-17, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, plays a crucial role in diabetes and inflammatory diseases. However, the mechanism of IL-17's role in atherosclerosis and diabetes remains unknown. Resveratrol, a phytoalexin found in red grape skins, has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. Macrophages are the first inflammatory cells found in atherosclerotic lesions, and their population is elevated in diabetic patients. IL-17 is a consistent and clinically relevant biomarker, and further research is needed to understand the molecular mechanisms by which high glucose promotes immunomodulatory effects leading to diabetic and cardiovascular complications. Therapeutic approaches are needed to prevent these complications using macrophages as potential targets.