Investigating the effects of fish oil and salsalate on nerve health in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Effects of Fish Oil ± Salsalate on the Omega-3 Index and the Circulating Lipodome of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Metabolites in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Diabetic Neuropathy

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11023059

This study is looking for people with type 2 diabetes and nerve pain to see if taking the right amount of fish oil along with a medication called salsalate can help improve their nerve health and reduce pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11023059 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on patients with type 2 diabetes who experience diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a condition that can cause significant pain and disability. The study aims to determine the optimal dosage of fish oil, combined with salsalate, to improve nerve health and potentially reverse nerve damage. Participants will be monitored for changes in their omega-3 index and the levels of specific metabolites in their blood, which may indicate improvements in their condition. The research builds on previous laboratory findings that suggest these treatments could slow the progression of DPN and promote nerve repair.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who also have diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Not a fit: Patients without type 2 diabetes or those who do not have diabetic peripheral neuropathy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that alleviate pain and improve quality of life for patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in clinical applications.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.