The diabetic nerve - degeneration, survival and regeneration in the peripheral nervous system in neuropathy and after nerve injuries in diabetes

Diabetes (DM) severely affects peripheral nerves, i.e. diabetic neuropathy (DPN).

Nerves in people with DM are prone to nerve compressions, that are treated by surgery; sometimes with unpredictable outcome.

In view of global rise in number of people with DM having an active professional and leisure life, there are risks for nerve transection and laceration injuries, requiring surgical treatment.

Unclear mechanisms for development of DPN as well as development of and functional recovery in context of nerve compression and various nerve injuries treated with surgery are unsolved clinical problems.

Overall aims are, in well interrelated subprojects, to: 1) get new cellular and mechanistic insights into de- and regeneration processes; 2) develop new prospects for diagnosis and intervention with ultimate goals to improve quality of life.

By assembling appropriate people populations, relevant experimental diabetic models, and use of novel techniques, like synchrotron imaging and mass spectrometry, we examine skin and nerve biopsies as well as sensation and recovery of function.

The project addresses the issue with a range of complementary techniques and know-how, present in the applicant´s own lab or in broad collaborative national and international research networks, as well as combining registries with biobanks; all with visions to improve human health.

Implementation of achieved results is facilitated through a broad and deep clinical competence in the health care system.