SERUM APOLIPOPROTEIN AI AND B ARE STRONGER BIOMARKERS OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY THAN TRADITIONAL LIPIDS

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a prevalent microvascular consequence of diabetes and is the primary cause of blindness and visual impairment on a global scale. Dyslipidemia is the primary metabolic disturbance in diabetes mellitus. Several research have indicated a favourable correlation between conventional serum lipids and the risk of DR, however other investigations have not consistently demonstrated the same relationships. Materials and Methods: This study was a case-control study conducted in the ophthalmology department, involving 100 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The levels of fasting blood sugar and post-prandial blood sugar were measured using the glucose oxidase-peroxidase (GOD-POD) method, as well as HbA1C. The autoanalyzer was used
to evaluate the serum lipid profile.The levels of SerumApo-A1 and Apo-B were quantified using a fully automated nephelometry method. The Apo-B/A1 ratio was computed. The grading of retinopathy was conducted based on the criteria established by the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS). Results: The levels of Serum Apo-A1 showed a substantial decrease as the severity of DR increased (p<0.001). Significant elevations in Apo B (p<0.001) and the Apo Bto-Apo-A1 ratio (p<0.001) were observed, and these findings were substantially correlated with the severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR). The severity of DR was found to have a negative correlation with HDL cholesterol levels (p<0.05). The triglyceride level showed a strong correlation with both the higher occurrence and greater severity of diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes, while LDL or total cholesterol did not exhibit such an association.

Conclusion: The relationship between serum apolipoproteins (Apo-A1, Apo B, and the ApoB/Apo-A1 ratio) and the advancement
and severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) is more significant than that of traditional lipids.Despite the limited usage of apolipoprotein measures in clinical practise, further research is necessary to understand its protective mechanism. This will help reduce the prevalence of eye conditions and provide more comprehensive eye care.