Clinical Research
Recognized as a leader in neuropathy research, the Strelitz Diabetes Center currently
has 12 clinical research studies to test new experimental methods and medications for
treating neuropathy. A diabetic neuropathy study group of cooperating physicians,
clinicians, physiologists, plastic surgeons, podiatrists, neurologists and cell and
molecular biologists work as a team with Institutes' researchers in clinical research and
treatment of patients.
The Clinical Research Office is also doing six clinical research studies to improve control of
blood sugar in people with Type II diabetes.
People who want to participate should call the Clinical
Research Office at (757) 446-5912.
Studies in Progress Which Address Factors
Associated With Nerve Damage
Aldose Reductase
Long term high blood sugars cause sugar alcohols that
stimulate swelling in the nerves and render them useless. This study is attempting to
regulate one of the sugar alcohols, sorbitol, through the use of an aldose reductase
inhibitor to ascertain if its use will prevent the development of foot ulcers in people
with nerve damage.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
In two clinical studies, researchers are investigating
the effect of enhancing natural anti-oxidants in people with high blood sugars through the
administration of alpha-lipoic acid. This fatty acid may assist anti-oxidants in combating
free radicals which destroy cells in living tissue. One study addresses relief of acute
pain while the other is geared to investigate relief of chronic neuropathic pain.
Clonidine
This drug has long been used for high blood pressure.
This study is investigating the effects on pain in people with diabetes and painful
neuropathy with a topical application of Clonidine.
Insufficient Blood Flow
Five studies have been designed to investigate the
ability of new agents to revitalize damaged nerves by improving blood flow to the nerves.
Two of these are being funded by the American Diabetes Association for the next couple of
years.
Protein Kinase C
Activation of Protein Kinase C has been implicated in the
development of blood flow and nerve dysfunction in diabetes. This drug is known to affect
the activation of one type of Protein Kinase C. This study is investigating its effects in
humans with diabetes and neuropathy.
Topirmate
Topirmate has long been used as an anticonvulsant. This
study is examining the use of this for pain associated with diabetic peripheral
neuropathy.
Other Studies Currently In Progress
Glycemic Controlling Agents
Six studies are investigating new compounds that lower
blood glucose levels. Four of these studies are using oral agents and the other two are
using either insulin alone or insulin and an oral agent.
Growth Hormone
Some people in the population have a deficiency in the
production of growth hormone. This study examines the effects of treatments of injections
of growth hormone. |
