Abstract 11

Generation of advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs) is enhanced in diabetes even in midly elevated blood glucose. The AGEs are considered to be an important factor in the pathogenesis of micro and macrovascular complications in diabetes. The AGEs can lead to changes in self proteins and generate autoantigens. The aim of this study is to measure serum autoantibodies (Abs) against AGEs in type 1 diabetes patients (DP) comparing them with non diabetic control subjects (CS) and to stablish the correlation between age, sex, distribution metabolic control and diabetes duration. The study included 32 DP (20 females/12 males) and 16 CS (10 females/ 6 males). Age: DP: 11,6±4,8 years old (mean ± SD); CS: 13±6,8 years old; Hb A1c%: 11,2±2,3. Diabetes duration: 3,7±2,7 years. The Abs were measured by Elisa, using human serum albumin-AGE (HSA-AGE), collagen-AGE (col-AGE) and Low Density Lipoproteins-AGE (LDL-AGE) as antigens. The results were expressed as rate of Optical Density AGE-protein/Optical Density native protein. The levels of serum anti LDL-AGE and anti-col-AGE autoantibodies showed no difference in both groups. However, serum anti LDL-AGE antibodies were significantly higher in DP than CS (2,91±0,34 vs. 1,62±0,16, p<0,05; test t). There was no correlationship between antiLDL-AGE Abs and age, sex distribution, metabolic control and diabetes duration. Since these Abs may be present in the early stage of this illness it is necessary to define if they represent a physiological mechanism of clearance or if they play a role in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. Supported by Grant DIUC 96.072.014-1. University of Concepción. Chile.