T-cell activation and cardiovascular risk in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Chronic immune activation has been described in the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). However, the precise functional role of T-cells remains controversial. We therefore, assessed T-cell activation and cardiovascular risk in T2D. Methods: The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018099745). We searched electronic databases and grey literature for eligible studies. The risk of bias and quality of evidence were assessed and the random effects model was used in the meta -analysis. Findings: Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. We report on increased T-cell activation in T2D and nondiabetics with CVD. Comorbidity of T2D and CVD (T2D + CVD) exacerbated T-cell activation. In addition, T2D + CVD comorbidity was associated with an increased CVD risk profile. Conclusion: This meta -analysis suggests increased T-cell activation in T2D and nondiabetics with CVD. Moreover, an increased cardiovascular risk in patients with T2D which is exacerbated in T2D and CVD co-morbidity.