Neuropharmacological Insights into Type 3 Diabetes: Molecular Mechanisms, Therapeutic Advances, and Future Directions

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a multifaceted metabolic disease with consequences for global health. It is characterized by insulin resistance and irregularities in insulin secretion. The global prevalence of diabetes necessitates a nuanced understanding beyond traditional classifications, emphasizing the dynamic nature of this health threat. Recent strides in genetics have led to the development of personalized treatments, while the emergence of type 3 diabetes underscores the need for refined classifications, standardized definitions, and improved screening methods. The fusion of neuropharmacology with diabetes care signals a transformative shift, with a focus on cognitive function and neuronal survival alongside glycaemic control. Repurposing antidiabetic medications for neurodegenerative diseases introduces a promising frontier at the intersection of diabetes and neurological research. Investigating the molecular and metabolic pathways that underlie diabetic problems reveals complex processes, including the generation of diacylglycerol, modified redox states, the polyol pathway, and advanced glycation end-product synthesis. Strategies targeting these pathways unveil novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate vascular dysfunction and oxidative stress. Antidiabetic drugs, including metformin, thiazolidinediones, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor-targeting compounds, show promise for neuroprotection, extending beyond glycaemic control to enhance insulin signaling and protect against degeneration. Molecular targets such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP-1B), and glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) offer potential avenues for reshaping diabetes management, presenting both challenges and opportunities in the pursuit of precision medicine. In envisioning the future, the concept of type 3 diabetes will become a focal point, leading to dedicated exploration for accurate diagnostics and targeted treatments. This paper serves as a catalyst for sustained exploration, interdisciplinary collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to pioneering the future of diabetes care, aiming to illuminate the present while shaping a future met with precision, empathy, and innovative solutions.