Abstract 251: Investigating the Role of the Hexosamine Biosynthesis Pathway in Diabetic Atherosclerosis

Background: Diabetes mellitus dramatically increases the risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. We have established that chronic hyperglycemia promotes an increase in glucose flux through the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway (HBP). Central to this pathway is glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT), the rate-limiting enzyme controlling the conversion of glucose to glucosamine. We have shown that glucosamine is a potent …