New Study Sheds Light on the Connection Between Diabetes and Iron Metabolism Disorders

A recent comprehensive report (Ivanova et al., 2023) supported by the International H63D Homozygous Mutation Research Team (www.h63d.org) has highlighted the significant connection between diabetes and iron metabolism disorders, including the largely overlooked H63D Syndrome, and offers potential therapeutic approaches for affected individuals. Iron metabolism disorders, such as hemochromatosis or H63D Syndrome, are characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the body (ferritin in hemochromatosis and NTBI in H63D Syndrome) which can lead to various health complications. Previous research has indicated an increased prevalence of diabetes in patients with these types of iron overload.

The report presents an in-depth analysis of the underlying mechanisms involved in the development of diabetes in patients with iron metabolism disorders. The study showcases real-life data from a 7-year follow-up of 17 patients with H63D Syndrome, characterized by chronic non-transferrin-bound iron (NTBI) accumulation. The findings reveal a higher risk of developing diabetes and pre-diabetes in patients with H63D Syndrome compared to a matched control group, highlighting the importance of long-term monitoring and management.

The development of diabetes in patients with iron metabolism disorders is multifactorial, involving impaired insulin secretion, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress. So it is a mixed type-1 and type-2 diabetes which makes a treatment possible but difficult at the same time. Iron overload impairs insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells, leading to reduced insulin availability and ultimately diabetes. Insulin resistance and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokines are also contributing factors in this process.

Potential therapeutic approaches for these patients include insulin therapy, particularly with short to ultra-short acting insulins, which offers several advantages, such as fewer drug interactions, direct regulation of glucose metabolism, flexibility in dosing, no impact on iron metabolism, and a well-established safety profile. Long-active diabetes medication should be avoided in this mixed type or diabetes because the research shows clearly that the risk of a therapy induced hypoglycemia is tenfold in H63D Syndrome triggered diabetes.

Future research is needed to enhance the understanding of the relationship between iron metabolism disorders and diabetes, with a focus on early detection, personalized treatment strategies, and novel therapeutic targets.

The report emphasizes the importance of recognizing the multifactorial nature of diabetes in patients with iron metabolism disorders and the potential therapeutic approaches available. Further research and personalized treatment strategies will be critical to improving the management and outcomes for these patients.

Interested physicians and concerned patients may contact the H63D homozygous mutation consortium at www.h63d.org

Chairman: Riku Honda, M.Sc.
Medical Director: Dr. Fabio Rocha
Laboratory Facility Director: Dr. Shirazi

EU section's postal address
c/o LCG Dr. Diamandis
16 Kifissias Ave
GR-115 26 Athens
European Union

The International H63D Research Consortium is the only specialized scientific network for this rare disease.

This release was published on openPR.