Does the basement membrane become thicker in diabetics?

Yes, the basement membrane becomes thicker in diabetics.

The basement membrane is a thin layer of extracellular material that separates epithelial cells from underlying connective tissue. It is made up of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and it provides support and protection for epithelial cells.

In diabetes, the basement membrane becomes thickened and more rigid. This is due to an increase in the production of collagen, a protein that is a major component of the basement membrane. The thickening of the basement membrane can lead to a number of problems, including:

* Reduced blood flow to the tissues: The thickened basement membrane can make it more difficult for blood to flow through the tiny capillaries that supply oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. This can lead to tissue damage and organ failure.

* Nerve damage: The thickened basement membrane can also damage nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling sensations.

* Kidney disease: The thickened basement membrane can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney failure.

* Eye disease: The thickened basement membrane can also damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss.

The thickening of the basement membrane is a serious complication of diabetes, and it can lead to a number of serious health problems.