Suffocation of nerve fibers by living nanovesicles: a model simulation--part II

Nanobacteria may cause peripheral neuropathy by adhesion to the perineurium. This hypothesis receives support from five independent observations: (1) identification of perineurial apatite in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy, (2) massive presence of nanobacteria in a diabetic patient, (3) beneficial effect of lasers on peripheral neuropathy, (4) model simulation indicating that perineurial deposition and attachment of nanobacteria is encouraged by both their size and chemical nature, and (5) transient inhibition of neural function by apatite. Initial deposition of (stressed) nanobacteria is promoted by a slime thought to consist of proteins, calcium, and phosphate, and is most likely followed by an immobilization phase, mediated by a bioadhesive capacity of the apatite. Proteomics may hold the key to control both attachment processes.