Novel biomarkers may help in detecting diabetic complications much earlier than traditional ones. They may predict incidence and progression of these complications. Transferrin, albumin, IgG, NGAL, NAG, TNF-a, IL-1b, IL-18, VEGF are some of the novel biomarkers in diabetic nephropathy. Systemic subclinical and vascular inflammation has been shown to predict both the onset and progression of DSPN over 6.5 years in an older general population. Thus, modulation of inflammatory processes may be relevant to prevent and/or treat diabetic neuropathy. Natriuretic peptide and Galectin-3 are among key novel biomarkers.

In the SUMMIT VIP study, CV events in subjects with T2DM with manifest CVD were associated with higher baseline levels of inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, chemokine ligand 3, pentraxin 3 and hsCRP) and endothelial mitogens (hepatocyte growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor A). Novel biomarkers become future targets for therapeutic intervention and may help in regression of the complication. The future is full of hope though more data is needed to use them in routine clinical practice.