Physical activity – related changes in ADMA and vWF levels in patients with type 2 diabetes – a preliminary study

BACKGROUND: The activity and the role of methylarginine in diabetic patients are subject to continuous research. The mechanism through which diabetes or insulin resistance increases asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) serum levels is not fully understood. Studies indicate increased ADMA serum levels in patients with hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and hyperhomocysteinemia. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the changes in ADMA levels and its derivatives related to the current disease process, as well as the levels of selected prothrombotic factors and their changes induced by physical activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 44 patients: group A (22 patients) - patients with diabetes with no vascular complications with mean age of 55.83 ± 7.37 years; and group B (22 patients) - healthy volunteers with the mean age of 51.16 ± 6.39 years. The authors' questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data in the study group. Physical exercise (Nordic walking) was practiced once per day for 30 min, 5 times a week. The assessment of peripheral blood parameters was performed using the ABX MICROS OT 16-parameter hematology analyzer. Additionally, chromatographic assay of serum levels of L-arginine, ADMA and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) was performed. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences in ADMA levels in the respondents with type 2 diabetes vs healthy volunteers after training (0.763 ± 0.043 vs 0.532 ± 0.046; p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: ADMA and SDMA levels in diabetic patients significantly exceeded standard values.