Reactive oxygen species and diabetes-associated atherosclerosis - Evidence from experimental models and targeted antioxidant therapy

The primary cause for mortality and morbidity in patients with diabetes is atherosclerosis, an inflammatory vascular disease. Over the past decade, it has become increasingly clear that in a diabetic milieu, oxidative stress plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of diabetes-associated atherosclerosis. In this chapter, we focus on mechanisms whereby oxidative stress contributes to the accelerated progression of atherosclerosis in diabetes. In particular, our emphasis is on experimental evidence from animal models, in which specific components leading to oxidative stress are targeted via genetic manipulation. We also explore the use of targeted pharmacological compounds to lower oxidative stress levels. Furthermore, we discuss novel antioxidant compounds that are proving to be beneficial in preclinical trials. Thus, by gaining an understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which diabetes-induced oxidative stress accelerates the progression of atherosclerosis, it is hoped that this will lead to the generation of new therapies that are more efficacious in reducing the burden of diabetic complications.