Vascular endothelial growth factor gene transfer for diabetic polyneuropathy: a randomized, double-blinded trial.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Randomized, blinded trial of intramuscular gene transfer using plasmid vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to treat diabetic polyneuropathy.

Methods

Diabetic patients with polyneuropathy were randomized to receive a VEGF-to-placebo ratio of 3:1. Three sets of injections were given at eight standardized sites adjacent to the sciatic, peroneal, and tibial nerves of one leg. Primary outcomes were change in symptom score at 6 months and a prespecified overall clinical and electrophysiological improvement score. Secondary outcomes were differences in symptoms, examination scores, visual analog pain scale, nerve conduction, and quantitative sensory testing.

Results

Thirty-nine patients received plasmid VEGF and 11 received placebo. Mean symptom score improve

SUBMITTER: Ropper AH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4709012 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature