Inflammatory Mediators in Diabetic Neuropathy

Abstract

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is the most common complication of diabetes mellitus, resulting in high health care costs and greatly affecting the quality of life of patients. The mechanism(s) responsible for the development of DN is currently unclear, but is likely multifactoral. While a great deal is still unknown about the mediators responsible for the development of DN, current knowledge of other neuropathic conditions suggest the involvement of a number of inflammatory mediators such as interleukins and chemokines. This review will outline the current literature of a number of inflammatory mediators in both human and rodent studies. As there is currently no therapeutic treatment for DN, this review will also provide an overview of therapeutics targeting inflammation and the ability of these therapies to improve the symptoms of DN.