Detecting hidden biomarkers to investigate and diagnose diabetic vascular pathology (resubmission of NET 2018 application)

Complete

01/11/2018

Yorkshire and the Humber

Diagnostic

Awarded amount: £114,992

Grant scheme: TRP

Institution: University of Leeds

Principle Investigator: Dr Andrew Smith

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Type II diabetes can cause significant damage to the blood vessels, which in turn increases the likelihood of suffering a major cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke.

When blood vessels are damaged, they release so-called ‘biomarkers’ into the blood. Identifying the presence of these biomarkers would allow for earlier diagnosis of diabetes, allowing treatment to be started before too much damage occurs.

This study used a technique that would allow these protein biomarkers to be detected in blood vessel cells before being released into the blood. They then evaluated whether this could be used for early diagnosis of diabetes.

The technique uses a chemical called SMA which extracts the proteins from cells without damaging the cells. The study found that this “SMA biopsy” was effective in detecting blood vessels affected by diabetes in both laboratory and human models. The team also found a number of proteins that were elevated in diabetic vessels. Combined, these findings have provided both protein markers and a method of collection for the early detection of Type II diabetes. This will allow for intervention to occur before the damage to the blood vessels is too advanced to reverse. The results from this study are currently being prepared for publication.

This work will now be expanded to test the range of potential uses of the technique, including the early detection of cancer.This will occur alongside tests of sensitivity and suitability for use in humans. If successful, this could be highly significant for the early detection of a wide range of diseases.