A recent study explores the relationship between skin autofluorescence (SAF) levels and blood glucose, focusing on advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) accumulation. The researchers hypothesize that SAF could be a reliable marker for complications associated with type 1 diabetes in children. The aim of the study was to assess whether SAF could track the progression of type 1 diabetes and potentially serve as a non-invasive tool for detecting and monitoring complications. This research was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021284774).
The study conducted a meta-analysis using data from PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science. The analysis applied a random-effects model to evaluate whether SAF measurements could act as a non-invasive marker for type 1 diabetes and its complications. SAF levels in children with type 1 diabetes were compared with those of healthy controls, calculating the mean difference and 95% confidence intervals.
The analysis included three case-control studies and one retrospective cohort study, all using the AGE Reader® device (DiagnOptics Technologies). The results showed significant heterogeneity (I² = 82%, P < 0.05). The random-effects model revealed a positive correlation between higher SAF levels and type 1 diabetes in children, with a mean difference of 0.20 (0.16, 0.25). This suggests that children with type 1 diabetes had elevated SAF compared to their non-diabetic counterparts.
The findings support the use of SAF as a non-invasive marker for type 1 diabetes and its complications in children. However, the researchers call for more extensive studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods to provide more conclusive evidence. Further research into the diverse roles of the skin is also necessary to deepen understanding of SAF’s potential.
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