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Studying the Hypothalamic Insulin Signal to Peripheral Glucose Intolerance with a Continuous Drug Infusion System into the Mouse Brain
Published on: January 4, 2018
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Effects of insulin on peripheral nerves
Mark Stecker1, Matthew Stevenson1
1Department of Neuroscience, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola NY 11530.
Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications
|May 3, 2016
Summary
Insulin affects peripheral nerve function differently depending on glucose levels and oxygen availability. These findings are crucial for understanding and potentially treating diabetic neuropathy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Diabetic Complications
Background:
- Peripheral nerve function is vital for motor and sensory control.
- Diabetes mellitus is associated with significant risks of peripheral neuropathy.
- The role of insulin in peripheral nerve function under varying physiological conditions requires detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of insulin on peripheral nerve function.
- To examine these effects under both normoglycemic and hyperglycemic conditions.
- To assess the influence of anoxia on insulin's effects on nerve function.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an in-vitro sciatic nerve model.
- Measured nerve action potential (NAP) as the primary indicator of nerve function.
- Varied glucose concentrations (normoglycemic and hyperglycemic) and oxygen availability (oxygenated and anoxic conditions).
Main Results:
- Low-concentration insulin reduced nerve conduction velocity in normoglycemic, oxygenated nerves.
- Insulin counteracted hyperglycemia-induced increases in NAP duration.
- Insulin modulated responses to anoxia, reducing conduction block time and altering NAP characteristics.
Conclusions:
- Insulin exerts concentration-dependent effects on peripheral nerves.
- These effects are modulated by glucose levels and oxygen status.
- Insulin's influence on nerve function may play a role in mitigating diabetic neuropathic complications.
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