Similar results were reported in another observational study, enrolling 30 subjects with T2DM and cataract, 30 subjects with T2DM and DR and cataract, 30 subjects with cataract but without T2DM, and 30 healthy controls, showing significantly increased levels of endocan in blood and aqueous humor in subjects with T2DM, DR, and concomitant cataract, compared to the other groups, a finding suggestive of its role in the pathogenesis of DR in subjects with T2DM [50]. Here, ESM1 is linked to type 2 diabetes mellitus.