Targeting Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes: The Role of Colchicine

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains one of the most prevalent chronic metabolic disorders globally, presenting an ongoing challenge in terms of prevention and management. The majority of existing therapeutic strategies focus primarily on glycemic control. However, the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of the disease is being recognized increasingly, which has brought to light a critical gap in our understanding of diabetes treatment in the context of anti-inflammatory therapeutics. Inflammatory reactions are essential to the development and progression of T2DM. The NLRP3 inflammasome, along with its downstream inflammatory factors, is a key mediator of these responses. Recent data underscore the significance of Interleukin- 1β (IL-1β) in instigating and sustaining inflammation-related organ dysfunction in T2DM. Consequently, factors governing NLRP3 activation and IL-1β expression emerge as potential therapeutic targets. Here, we aim to examine one such therapeutic agent, colchicine, which can potentially manage inflammation associated with T2DM. As an anti-inflammatory medicine, colchicine can inhibit the assembly and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome via various mechanisms, thereby mitigating inflammation. In this context, the study discusses the mechanisms that link metabolic disorders with the onset of chronic inflammation, evaluates clinical studies and trials that investigate the efficacy and safety of colchicine, as well as discusses its benefits and limitations as an anti-inflammatory therapy in T2DM. The goal is to provide a clear framework for understanding the role of colchicine in the therapeutic landscape of T2DM, potentially leading to novel approaches for managing the disease.

Keywords: Colchicine; IL-1 inhibitors; NLRP3 inflammasome; chronic inflammation; type 2 diabetes (T2DM)..