Circulating Biomarkers as a Window into the Relationship between Sarcopenia and Diabetes: Implications for Effective Management

INTRODUCTION/AIMS: This study aims to investigate the relationship between sarcopenia and circulating biomarkers in diabetes, with a focus on early detection and effective management strategies. METHODS: A literature review was conducted using the ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases up to December 2024. Key search terms included "diabetes," "sarcopenia," "HbA1c", "glucose," "insulin," and specific biomarkers such as inflammatory markers, adipokines, and myokines. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Aging is associated with a decline in organ and bodily system functionality, with sarcopenia being particularly prominent due to its progressive loss of muscle mass and function. This condition increases health risks and mortality in the elderly. Muscles, as the primary consumers of glucose, play a crucial role in glucose uptake; reduced mass can exacerbate insulin resistance. Sarcopenia and diabetes share common pathophysiological mechanisms, including insulin resistance, inflammation, and vascular complications. Circulating biomarkers, crucial for diabetes management, may offer insights into the early stages of sarcopenia. CONCLUSION: The complex relationship between sarcopenia and diabetes, influenced by shared pathophysiological pathways, presents challenges in geriatric healthcare. Circulating biomarkers hold promise for early detection and monitoring of sarcopenia, potentially enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life. Further research is necessary to validate these connections and develop targeted treatments for individuals affected by these conditions.