Exploring how gut bacteria affect nerve damage in diabetes
Official title: Investigating the role of gut extracellular vesicles in diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Funded at Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences · NIH-11046549 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny particles from gut bacteria might help protect nerves in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which is a common issue for those with diabetes, and it hopes to find new ways to improve nerve health through better gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $512,592 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135970-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046549 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes who are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those who do not have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut-derived extracellular vesicles in the development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a common complication of diabetes. By analyzing how changes in gut bacteria influence nerve health, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic approaches. The researchers will focus on Lactobacillus-derived extracellular vesicles, which have shown promise in reducing inflammation and protecting nerves in preliminary studies. Patients may benefit from insights into how gut health impacts nerve damage and potential new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate nerve damage in diabetic patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using gut-derived extracellular vesicles in DPN is novel, similar studies have shown promise in other conditions related to gut health and inflammation.
Where this research is happening
-
Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Xianshuang — Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Liu, Xianshuang
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Gut bacterial vesicles and diabetic nerve damage
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This study is testing a new type of tablet that combines two ingredients to help relieve pain for people with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy, aiming to provide relief without the side effects of regular pain medications.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.