Animal Models of Diabetic Complications Consortium Pilot & Feasibility Program Award to Thomas Baumann, Ph.D.
Microneurography model of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetic neuropathies are a family of sensory and autonomic nerve disorders caused by hyperglycemia or insulin resistance.
- The experiments described in Dr. Baumann's funded grant will attempt to provide a more complete understanding of painful diabetic sensory neuropathy.
- The experiments are expected to generate important information needed in the selection of most representative models of diabetic sensory neuropathy generated by the Animal Models of Diabetic Complications Consortium (AMDCC) supported by the National Institutes of Health.
Diabetic neuropathy, which develops over time, covers a family of nerve disorders defined by nerve damage caused by diabetes. Spontaneous burning pain is a common symptom of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage in the arms and legs). The microneurography experiments, (recording of peripheral nerve fiber activity using a microelectrode is inserted in a nerve bundle), described in Dr. Baumann's grant funded work will seek to provide a more complete understanding of painful diabetic neuropathy. The experiments will build upon the observation that painful diabetic neuropathy is associated with abnormal spontaneous action potential discharge in nociceptive C-fiber primary afferents. Comparison of C-fiber discharge patterns in the model with those measured in diabetic humans who do or do not experience spontaneous burning pain will provide insights into the mechanisms of this serious complication of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Animal Models of Diabetic Complications Consortium (AMDCC)
The AMDCC is an interdisciplinary consortium designed to develop new animal models that closely mimic the human complications of diabetes for the purpose of studying disease pathogenesis, prevention and treatment. Additional goals of the AMDCC are to define criteria to validate each diabetic complication for its similarity to the human disease, test the role of candidate genes that emerge from human genetic studies, and facilitate the exchange of models, tissues, reagents, and expertise between members of the consortium and the greater scientific community.
OHSU Neurosciences
OHSU Neurosciences is one of the nation’s leading neurologic research and training programs and provides the most comprehensive care of neurologic illnesses in the Pacific Northwest. Our nationally recognized neurological programs and centers offer comprehensive clinical and surgical services that are available nowhere else in Oregon. Our leading-edge research and clinical trial opportunities ultimately provide new treatment options, earlier detection and improved quality of life for patients.
