Microvascular Dysfunction in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Retinal Microvascular Dysfunction in Painful and Non-Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy.
IRAS ID
261329
Contact name
Calvin Howorth
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Plymouth
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
This study primarily seeks to evaluate dysfunction of small blood vessels and their linkage to dysfunction of nerves in people with Type 2 Diabetes. The purpose of this research is to explore some of the underlying pathophysiology of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, particularly painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The pain experienced by individuals with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy is severe and associated with low quality of life. The pain does not typically respond well to pharmacological management. The processes underpinning the sources of pain are poorly understood, consequently only around a third of patients benefit from existing treatments. Some historic research on the sources of pain suggest the retention of the ability to reduce blood flow in small vessels may underpin these pain pathways. This research aims to explore this possibility, looking at the nerve-linked response in small vessels with a flickering light within the eye.
Participants will complete three or four questionnaires: one demographic, two to aid with stratifying participants into groups concerning symptoms of neuropathy and an additional questionnaire if participants are stratified to the painful DPN group. A basic neurological examination of the feet will follow.
Basic measurements of height, weight and blood pressure will be recorded for each participant.
The primary sites of measurement of this small vessel dysfunction will be the eye and the foot investigated in a non-invasive manner. A bright flickering light will be shone into participants eyes, with the reaction of small vessels recorded. Sensors will also be placed on the feet and chest of participants and warmed to ~44C. An image will be taken of participants eyes to measure nerve layer thickness and an area of skin on the forearm will be illuminated to measure for levels of a metabolic marker. A picture of the eye will also be taken to determine nerve layer thickness.
REC name
West Midlands - South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/WM/0360
Date of REC Opinion
17 Feb 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion