Evaluation of Aqueous Humor DEL-1 and IL-17 Levels in Diabetic Cataract Patients

Developmental Endothelial Locus-1 (DEL-1) is a molecule related to endothelial cells and is a protein involved in intercellular interactions. It is generally associated with the development and function of endothelial cells lining the inner surface of the vessel. It plays an important role in the regulation of inflammation, the development of vessels and the organization of endothelial cells. It has also been shown to be associated with some types of cancer. It may also be effective in tissue regeneration and healing of injuries.

IL-17 (Interleukin-17) is a group of cytokines that play an important role in the immune system. There are several subtypes of IL-17, the best known and most researched being IL-17A. It regulates the body's immune response to certain infections. It is an important cytokine that initiates and supports the inflammation process. IL-17 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

DEL-1 and IL-17 are two different molecules that act on inflammation and immune responses. DEL-1 helps regulate inflammation by protecting vascular health, while IL-17 can accelerate the course of diseases by increasing inflammation.

Diabetes is a systemic disease associated with oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Retinopathy, cataract and glaucoma diseases develop due to diabetes. DEL-1 is a protein involved in the maintenance of vascular homeostasis and regulation of inflammation. Since diabetic patients have chronic inflammation and microvascular dysfunction, changes in DEL-1 levels may provide important clues to the pathophysiology

Inclusion criteria

• Cataract diagnosed and surgery planned
• Patients without any other ocular pathology other than cataract.
• Type 2 DM for at least 5 years in the diabetic group

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with previous intraocular surgery
• Those with inflammatory eye diseases (e.g. uveitis)
• Those with autoimmune diseases or systemic inflammatory diseases
• Those receiving local or systemic steroid therapy
• Those with severe systemic disease (e.g. advanced renal failure, malignancy)