Al/Cr ratio in plasma and urine of diabetics

Diabetes is a serious and rising global epidemic. The syndrome has neither a distinct etiology, nor a defined pathogenesis. Chromium (Cr) is an essential trace element which appears to be implicated in glucose metabolism. On the other hand, there are great metabolic and chemical similarities between Cr and aluminum (Al). It may seem to suggest a simple mechanism whereby Al might possibly help induce diabetes. Therefore, we have undertaken to assess Al/Cr ratio in plasma and urine samples of diabetics and healthy volunteers. In the present study it has been found that the ratio in diabetics was higher than those of the control group.