Photobiostimulation effect on peripheral neuropathy in rats with type 1 diabetes induced by streptozotocin

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a disease with over 3500 years of history where it was first described by Ebers Papyrus, from Egyptian civilization. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic syndrome characterized by significant increase in glucose levels in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperglycemia. The hyperglycemic state lead to structural damage of physiologically peripheral nerve fibers. Peripheral diabetic neuropathy leads the patient a life filled with limitations and disabilities. The main complaints as peripheral diabetic neuropathy is chronic pain, motor abnormalities and significant lack of sensitivity in peripheral members, inevitably resulting in some situations with lower limb amputation. The mechanisms by which the degeneration of the peripheral fibers are still far from being elucidated, however, one of the current hypotheses is the involvement of end products of advanced glycation (AGE) in interaction with their receptors (RAGE) in the development of peripheral diabetic neuropathy, since such compounds are excessively changed in the peripheral fibers of those affected by diabetes mellitus type 1. As therapeutic approach we will use a low-intensity laser therapy, as this procedure has proven effective in improving pain, reversal of inflammation and possible participation in the regeneration of peripheral nerve fibers. It is worth mentioning that there is in clinical treatment focusing on peripheral degeneration caused by diabetes mellitus type 1, hence the need for research on other therapeutic modalities that return and restore the quality of life of those affected by this disease. (AU)