ObjectivePregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) has been implicated in the atherosclerotic process through regulation of local expression of IGF1. In type 2 diabetes mellitus, glycaemic control has been involved in PAPP-A expression. We compared PAPP-A, IGF1, inflammatory markers and adiponectin concentrations in type 2 diabetic patients with and without carotid plaques and evaluated the relationship between these serum parameters and ultrasound carotid markers of atherosclerosis.MethodsWe studied 125 consecutive type 2 diabetic patients. Clinical data, metabolic variables, hemostatic factors (plasma type-1 plasminogen activator inhibitor, fibrinogen), high-ultrasensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, adiponectin, IGF1 and PAPP-A were determined. Patients were classified into two groups according to the presence of carotid plaques on ultrasound. Carotid intima–media thickness (IMT) and morphology of carotid plaques were evaluated.ResultsThe mean age was 61.5±7.3 years and the mean glycated hemoglobin of 6.8±0.9%. A total of 60% presented carotid plaques. Both groups were homogeneous in anthropometric data, biochemical determinations and hemostatic factors. Adiponectin, hsCRP, TNF-α and IL-6 were similar in both groups. No differences were observed in serum PAPP-A (0.46 (0.22–0.86) vs 0.38 (0.18–0.66) mIU/l and in SDS IGF1 (−0.34±1.38 vs −0.67±1.35)) in patients with and without carotid plaques respectively. PAPP-A and IGF1 were not correlated with IMT.ConclusionsSerum PAPP-A and IGF1 do not appear to be useful serum biomarkers for carotid atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients with stable glycemic control, despite scientific evidence of their local role in atherosclerosis.
Elevated Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A in Sera from Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Hypercholesterolemia: Associations with Carotid Atherosclerosis and Toe-Brachial Index