sciencedaily.com
Could manipulating oxygen levels help manage cardiovascular and metabolic disorders? Researchers from the University of Missouri sought to answer this question by exploring the role of peripheral chemoreceptors—specialized cells near the carotid artery—in conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. These cells, which monitor oxygen levels in the body, are known to become overactive in individuals with diabetes, potentially contributing to cardiovascular complications.
The study, involving 37 participants—17 with type 2 diabetes and 20 without—examined how chemoreceptor overactivity could be modulated by hyperoxia, a state in which an individual is exposed to high oxygen levels. Researchers confirmed that peripheral chemoreceptors were significantly overactive in adults with diabetes, with the highest activity found in those with the poorest blood sugar control. When exposed to hyperoxia, participants experienced a measurable decrease in chemoreceptor activity, along with reductions in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate.
However, the study also revealed critical limitations. Despite these physiological changes, hyperoxia did not improve glucose tolerance or insulin sensitivity, nor did its effects differ significantly between individuals with or without diabetes. "One bout of hyperoxia does not immediately improve function," noted co-author Dr. Camila Manrique-Acevedo.
Understanding the role of peripheral chemoreceptors in type 2 diabetes is crucial for developing targeted therapies that address the cardiovascular and metabolic complications associated with the condition. While previous studies in animal models suggested that removing overactive chemoreceptors could yield health benefits, this study highlights the need for alternative approaches in humans.
By ruling out hyperoxia as a standalone therapy, researchers can now shift their focus to other promising interventions. “This information allows us to focus our attention on other therapies that show promise for patients with type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Manrique-Acevedo.
These findings underscore the complexity of type 2 diabetes and the importance of personalized treatment strategies. For healthcare professionals, they offer insight into an emerging area of research with potential implications for managing diabetes-related cardiovascular risks.