Gremlin-1 and Wagner Classification: Potential Biomarker for Amputation in Diabetic Foot Patients

Diabetic foot (DF) is a significant complication with high morbidity and mortality, often resulting from neuropathy and ischemia. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum Gremlin-1 levels and disease severity based on the Wagner classification in DF patients, and to determine its prognostic value in predicting the need for amputation.Eighty-five patients with DF ulcers or considered at high risk for DF were included in the study. The patients' complications were evaluated, and laboratory results were obtained from their records. The Wagner classification was applied, and serum Gremlin-1 levels were analyzed using the ELISA method.It was found that as the Wagner stage of the DF increased, Gremlin-1 levels decreased significantly at the statistical borderline (p = 0.05). In the group of patients who underwent amputation, Gremlin-1 levels decreased significantly (p < 0.05). The sensitivity of Gremlin-1 in predicting amputation, with a cut-off value of 2.47 ng/ml, was 67%, and its specificity was 46%. Additionally, a positive correlation was found between total cholesterol, LDL, fasting glucose, and Gremlin-1 (p < 0.05). In the group of patients with an HbA1c value >7.5%, Gremlin-1 levels increased significantly (p < 0.05). In patients with albuminuria, serum Gremlin-1 levels decreased significantly (p < 0.05).It was determined that Gremlin-1 plays a role through an unknown mechanism in DF patients, and its levels decrease as the Wagner stage increases. Gremlin-1 levels were significantly decreased in the amputation group (p < 0.05). It was shown that Gremlin-1 could be a prognostic marker for predicting amputation.