Expression of LRP1 and CHOP genes associated with peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus: Correlations with nerve conduction studies

Abstract

AimDiabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a frequent and debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus. The low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 (LRP-1) is a multifunctional cell surface receptor playing critical roles in lipoprotein metabolism and several cell signaling processes. C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) is a main conduit to endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced apoptosis. We aimed to investigate LRP1 and CHOP gene expression in peripheral blood cells of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) subjects to clarify its possible relation to DPN pathogenesis. MethodThe study included 20 non-complicated T2DM subjects, 20 subjects with DPN and 20 healthy controls. Quantitative real time PCR was used to study gene expression. ResultsThere was a significant reduction in LRP1 mRNA expression and a significant increase in CHOP mRNA expression in subjects with DPN compared to non-complicated group and healthy controls. Both LRP1 and CHOP expression levels were inversely correlated, and both showed significant correlation with HbA1c, hyperlipidemia, hs-CRP, and different electrophysiological parameters. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis suggested that both LRP1 and CHOP mRNA expression and hs-CRP levels had great potential advantages to predict the progression of DPN. ConclusionLRP1 and CHOP might be involved in DPN pathogenesis and progression, thus providing opportunities for early detection and treatment.