Experimental Diabesity Research 
Volume 4 (2003), Issue 2, Pages 65-71
doi:10.1155/EDR.2003.65

The Possible Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in Diabetic Polyneuropathy

Jo Satoh,1 Soroku Yagihashi,2 and Takayoshi Toyota3

 1Division of Molecular Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
2The First Department of Pathology, Hirosaki University School of Medicine, Hirosake, Japan
3Tohoku Rosai Hospital, Sendai, Japan
Received 9 May 2003; Accepted 14 May 2003

Abstract

In this review, the authors provide evidences that imply the role of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications, especially diabetic polyneuropathy. Under chronic hyperglycemia, endogenous TNF-α production is accelerated in microvascular and neural tissues, which may undergo an increased microvascular permeability, hypercoagulability, and nerve damage, thus initiating and promoting the development of characteristic lesions of diabetic microangiopathy and polyneuropathy. Enhanced TNF-α production may also promote atherosclerosis due to increased insulin resistance and the expression of adhesion molecules. Clinical application of specific agents that suppress production and/or activity of TNF-α may inhibit the development and exacerbation of chronic diabetic complications.