Effect of Saxagliptin (DPP-4 Inhibitor) on Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPCs) as a Cellular Biomarker for Evaluating Endothelial Dysfunction in Early Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Detailed Summary

Type 2 diabetes is a national epidemic. Diabetes has undesirable effects on blood vessels which may contribute to heart disease. Endothelial Progenitor Cells(EPCs) are found in the blood . Research has shown that improving the survival of these special blood cells may decrease the harmful effects of diabetes on blood vessels and reduce or reverse heart disease. Saxagliptin is an FDA(Food and Drug Administration) approved prescription medicine used along with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar in people with Type 2 diabetes. It is in a class of diabetes medication called DPP-4 inhibitors. DPP-4 inhibitors have been shown to increase EPCs in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Hypothesis: We believe poor viability and function of EPCs in early diabetes ultimately affects the repair and regeneration of the endothelium and that prompt intervention using saxagliptin with another oral hypoglycemic agent, Metformin, may reduce or reverse cardiovascular risk by improving EPC survival and function above and beyond adequate glucose metabolism control.

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