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Open Access 01-12-2020 | Diabetes | Research article

Natural killer cell levels in adults living with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies

Authors: Vuyolwethu Mxinwa, Phiwayinkosi V. Dludla, Tawanda M. Nyambuya, Kabelo Mokgalaboni, Sithandiwe E. Mazibuko-Mbeje, Bongani B. Nkambule

Published in: BMC Immunology | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Background

Chronic immune activation and hyperglycaemia are a hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) while natural killer (NK) cells are involved in the pathogenesis of T2D. Dysregulated NK cell responses are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in patients living with T2D.

Objective

To provide a comprehensive and systematic evidence-based estimate on the levels of NK cells in patients living with T2D.

Results

This systematic review and meta-analysis included 13 studies reporting on 491 adult patients with T2D and 1064 nondiabetic controls. The pooled effect estimates showed increased levels of NK cells in adult patients with T2D compared to controls (MD: 0.03 [− 3.20, 3.26], I² = 97%, p < 0.00001).

Conclusion

Overall, the evidence presented in this systematic review shows that the changes in NK cells in patients living with T2D are still unclear and further studies are needed.

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Title: Natural killer cell levels in adults living with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies
Authors: Vuyolwethu Mxinwa
Phiwayinkosi V. Dludla
Tawanda M. Nyambuya
Kabelo Mokgalaboni
Sithandiwe E. Mazibuko-Mbeje
Bongani B. Nkambule
Publication date: 01-12-2020
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes
Published in: BMC Immunology / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2172
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12865-020-00378-5

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Abstract

Background

Objective

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