مشخصات پژوهش

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) represents a global pandemic, with its prevalence projected to rise to 783 million by 2045 [ T2DM is characterized by a dual defect: insulin resistance in peripheral tissues and a progressive decline in pancreatic β-cell function. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical to prevent or delay the devastating microvascular and macrovascular complications associated with the disease . However, the current diagnostic criteria rely on elevated fasting glucose, HbA1c, or an oral glucose tolerance test, which often identify the disease only after significant metabolic dysfunction has already occurred. The search for novel biomarkers that can provide deeper insights into the early pathophysiological processes of T2DM—such as emerging β-cell stress and dynamic adipose tissue dysfunction—is a paramount research focus. Two promising biomarkers that have emerged from studies of metabolic regulation are Angiopoietin-Like Protein 8 (ANGPTL8) and Growth Differentiation Factor-15 (GDF-15). Angiopoietin-Like Protein 8 (ANGPTL8) Also known as betatrophin, is a hepatokine and adipokine that plays a crucial role in lipid and glucose metabolism. It is known to inhibit lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity, thereby regulating triglyceride clearance . More relevant to diabetes, ANGPTL8 has been shown to be highly responsive to insulin and nutritional status. Its expression is upregulated after feeding and in insulin-resistant states. Studies suggest it may influence pancreatic β-cell proliferation and insulin sensitivity, making it a dynamic marker of metabolic adaptation and stress in early T2DM . However, its precise role and association in newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve patients remain controversial. Growth Differentiation Factor-15 (GDF-15( is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily.