The focus of this application is on the role of the calpains in diabetic neuropathy. The general hypothesis to be tested is that the calpain/calpastatin system plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of axonal degenerations.
Specific aim 1 is to identify and measure changes in the calpain/calpastatin system during Wallerian degeneration, using specific antibodies and in vitro protease assays.
Specific aim 2 is to test the potential for calpain inhibition to modify the neuropathological changes induced in dorsal root ganglion explant cultures by hyperglycemia. The third specific aim is to test the ability of various permeant calpain inhibitors to prevent or reduce neuropathy in streptozotocin-induced rat diabetic neuropathy

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01NS038848-03
Application #
6187739
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG2-NMS (02))
Program Officer
Nichols, Paul L
Project Start
1998-09-30
Project End
2002-08-31
Budget Start
2000-09-01
Budget End
2002-08-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$241,927
Indirect Cost
Name
Emory University
Department
Neurology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
066469933
City
Atlanta
State
GA
Country
United States
Zip Code
30322