The impact of type 1 diabetes mellitus on corneal epithelial nerve morphology and the corneal epithelium.

ABSTRACT: Diabetic corneal neuropathy can result in chronic, sight-threatening corneal pathology. Although the exact etiology is unknown, it is believed that a reduction in corneal sensitivity and loss of neurotrophic support contributes to corneal disease. Information regarding the relationship between nerve loss and effects on the corneal epithelium is limited. We investigated changes in the corneal epithelium and nerve morphology using three-dimensional imaging in vivo and in situ in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic mouse model. Streptozotocin-treated mice showed increased levels of serum glucose and growth retardation consistent with a severe diabetic state. A reduction in the length of the subbasal nerve plexus was evident after 6 weeks of disease. Loss of the subbasal nerve plexus was associa

SUBMITTER: Cai D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4188872 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature