Long-term Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Diabetes Mellitus
Ralph DeFronzo, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Project Overview
Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 infection has been associated with acute hyperglycemia, new-onset type 2 and type 1 diabetes, and metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction. However, the long-term impact of COVID-19 on glucose homeostasis and the subsequent risk of developing prediabetes or diabetes remains unclear.
Objective: To determine whether prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly severe COVID-19, increases the long-term risk of developing prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and beta cell dysfunction.
Methods: Glucose tolerance, HbA1c, islet-cell secretory response, and insulin action were assessed at baseline and after one year in non-diabetic individuals with a history of COVID-19 (hospitalized and non-hospitalized, 2020-2022) and in matched non-diabetic controls without prior COVID-19 infection.
Results: Preliminary data indicate that, among 11 subjects with prior COVID-19, two developed diabetes during the follow-up period, whereas none of the eight control subjects did. Additionally, non-hospitalized COVID-19 subjects exhibited worsened glucose responses to oral glucose ingestion within one year of follow-up.
Conclusion/Discussion: These findings suggest early evidence of post-COVID metabolic dysregulation even in individuals who were not hospitalized.
Key Topics:
- Assay and in vitro studies to gain mechanistic insights
- Clinical assessment and pathogenesis of clinical manifestations
- Long-term follow-up of the RECOVER Cohorts
- Therapeutic targets and drug development