Role of Human Serum Albumin and Oxidative Stress in Diabetes

Abstract

Changes in human behaviour and lifestyle over the last century have resulted in a dramatic increase in the incidence of diabetes worldwide. Albumin, a major protein in the blood circulation, can undergo increased glycation in diabetes. From recent studies, it has become evident that glycation has important implications for albumin actions and impact on cell functioning. Human serum albumin (HSA) is the most abundant serum protein whose redox modifications modulate its physiological function, as well as serves as bio-marker for oxidative stress. Previous experimental and clinical studies report that oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis and development of complications of both types of DM. Hypoalbuminemia is the strongest clinical indicator of progression of many human diseases including cancer, diabetes, rheumatic diseases, liver and other diseases. Also, there is currently great interest in the potential contribution of increased oxidative stress to the development of complications in diabetes mellitus. This mini review highlights the association of human serum albumin and oxidative stress in diabetes.