The role zinc could play in the body is being studied, as researchers believe it could lay the foundation for future diabetes treatments.
A team from the University of St. Andrews studied what causes blood clots and why they are commonly associated with diabetics.
Through their work, they have drawn their attention to zinc, which helps the blood clot once someone has been injured.
However, clots can sometimes occur in people with health problems such as type 2 diabetes or obesity. In this case, the blood vessels can be damaged, leading to stroke or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
The research team found that the way zinc is transported in the blood is due to an increased level of fatty acids. When there is too much, the zinc cannot function as it should and it begins to interact with clot-activating proteins.
Dr. Alan Stewart, Senior Lecturer and Principal Investigator at the University of St. Andrews, said, “Our research suggests that changing the way you use zinc may contribute to the formation of undesirable and potentially dangerous blood clots.
“Ultimately, we hope that these results will support the development of new therapeutic strategies to reduce the risk of vascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes and other diseases associated with high levels of circulatory fatty acids.”
The study was funded by the British Heart Foundation. James Jopling of the organization said, “Diabetes is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes – conditions that can seriously affect the quality of life.
“It is therefore important that we understand more about it and know how to deal with it. Research projects like this one in St. Andrews help educate how we treat patients, identify those at particular risk and ultimately find new ways to save and improve lives. “
The results were published in the journal Chemical Science.
