Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Diabetes-Induced Macrovascular and Microvascular Complications: The Role of Oxidative Stress

Diabetic vascular diseases have emerged as a significant concern in medical research due to their considerable impact on human health. The challenge lies in the insufficient understanding of the intricate pathophysiological mechanisms associated with different forms of diabetic vascular diseases, which hampers our ability to identify effective treatment targets. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential for developing successful interventions. Unraveling the molecular pathways through which diabetes leads to microvascular and macrovascular complications in vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, retina, and extremities is crucial. Notably, oxidative stress resulting from hyperglycemia is the key factor in initiating these complications. This review aims to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms by which oxidative stress drives microvascular and macrovascular diseases and to highlight promising therapeutic advancements that offer hope for effective treatment solutions.

atherosclerosis; diabetes mellitus; diabetic kidney disease; diabetic retinopathy; endothelial dysfunction; hyperglycemia; macrovascular disease; microvascular disease; oxidative stress; reactive oxygen species.