Altered metabolism of copper, zinc, and magnesium is associated with increased levels of glycated hemoglobin in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with the alterations in the metabolism of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and magnesium (Mg). The aim of the present study was to investigate plasma levels of these elements in patients with DM and in healthy subjects. Association between glycated hemoglobin and levels of metals was also evaluated. We studied 36 subjects with DM (type 1, 11; type 2, 25) and 34 healthy subjects matched for age, sex, and duration of diabetes. Plasma concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Mg were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. An imbalance in the levels of studied metals was observed in both type 1 and type 2 DM. We found higher levels of Cu (P < .001) and Cu/Zn ratio (P < .0001) and decreased levels of Zn (P < .01) and Mg (P < .0001) in patients with DM when compared with controls. Negative correlation between Cu and Zn (r = -0.626, P < .0001) was found in patients with DM. Glycated hemoglobin levels were positively correlated with Cu (r = 0.709, P < .001) and Cu/Zn ratio (r = 0.777, P < .001) and inversely correlated with Zn (r = - 0.684, P < .001) and Mg (r = -0.646, P < .001). In conclusion, patients with DM had altered metabolism of Cu, Zn, and Mg; and this may be related to increased values of glycated hemoglobin. We concluded that impaired metabolism of these elements may contribute to the progression of DM and diabetic complications.