Diabetes and the plasticity of sensory neurons.
Authors Zochodne DW
Submitted By Douglas Zochodne on 12/8/2014
Status Published
Journal Neuroscience letters
Year 2014
Date Published 11/14/2014
Volume : Pages Not Specified : Not Specified
PubMed Reference 25445357
Abstract Diabetes mellitus targets sensory neurons during the development of peripheral
neuropathy. While polyneuropathy is often routinely considered as another
'microvascular' complication of diabetes mellitus, this concept may no longer
address the complexities and unique qualities of direct neuronal involvement.
The list of altered molecules and pathways in diabetic neurons continues to grow
and includes those related to structure, neuronal 'stress', and protection. A
role for abnormal direct neuronal insulin signaling has emerged as an important
contributing factor in neurodegeneration. Finally, important molecular players
that influence neuronal and axon growth, such as PTEN (phosphatase and tensin
homolog deleted on chromosome 10) are considered. A better mechanistic
understanding of the pathogenesis of diabetic polyneuropathy may foster targeted
therapies that reverse a long history of therapeutic failures.


Investigators with authorship
NameInstitution
Douglas ZochodneUniversity of Alberta

Complications