Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number and Leukocyte Telomere Length as Biomarkers in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Type 2 diabetes mellitus, which is characterised by a combination of insulin resistance and insufficient insulin secretion is a major contributor to the burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide.the mitochondrial genome contains multiple copies per cell. Because of its close proximity with higher levels of reactive oxidative species, mitochondrial DNA is prone to oxidative stress; which may lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, characterized by lowered oxidative capacity and reduction in energy production. Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with aging process and can affect cellular functions and thereby results in a variety of human diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and metabolic syndrome .Telomere length reflects the cumulative damage from those exposure factors and can be used as a potential indicator of biological aging. Shorter telomere length has been linked to the development of a variety of age-related diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes

Inclusion Criteria:This study will include patients who have type 2 diabetes mellitus.Exclusion Criteria:• Patients who have any other chronic illness.Patients who have cancer.