A high glucose concentration is shared by peritoneal dialysis (PD) and diabetes mellitus (DM). High glucose leads to tissue injury in diabetes. Peritoneal dialysis research has emphasized the role of glucose degradation products in tissue injury. Apoptosis induction is one of the mechanisms of tissue injury induced both by glucose and glucose degradation products. We now review the role of apoptosis and its regulation by glucose degradation products in antibacterial defense and loss of renal function in diabetes mellitus and peritoneal dialysis. The pathogenic role of the recently identified glucose degradation product 3,4-di-deoxyglucosone- 3-ene (3,4-DGE) is detailed. Available therapeutic strategies include the use of peritoneal dialysis solutions containing a low concentration of glucose degradation products. Based on preclinical results, specific targeting of apoptosis regulatory factor should be explored in the clinical setting.