The article discusses the connection between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and neurodegenerative disorders, with a focus on the role of mitochondrial dysfunction as a potential link between these conditions. It reviews the epidemiological and molecular evidence that suggests T2DM as a risk factor for the development of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, and highlights the importance of understanding the mitochondrial mechanisms underlying this relationship to identify new therapeutic targets.