Research

Peripheral Neuropathy

Brian Popko PhD is pursuing a better understanding of the molecules that are important to the development and maintenance of the peripheral nerve, using genetic mouse models as a key resource. Mutant and transgenic mouse strains have been particularly useful in the elucidation of in vivo functions of proteins and as authentic models for the study of human disease pathogenesis, and have the potential to be useful in the assessment of prospective therapeutic approaches. His research efforts have included the detailed phenotypic characterization of mutant strains of mice with behavioral, physiological, histological, biochemical, and molecular approaches. He is particularly interested in the interactions between the neuron and glial cells, and the role that these interactions play in the development and function of the nervous system. Alterations to the peripheral nerve myelin sheath underlie the peripheral neuropathy seen with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Numbness, prickling or tingling in the toes or fingers, possibly spreading up to the feet or hands and causing burning, freezing, throbbing and/or shooting pain, tripping on feet or weak grip may be signs of peripheral neuropathy. Diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy, but peripheral neuropathy is often a complication of other disorders, including:

  • Viral or bacterial infections such as shingles, Lyme disease, and HIV/AIDS
  • Autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease and Guillain-Barre syndrome
  • Genetic disorders such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Alcoholism
  • Physical trauma
  • Exposure to toxic chemicals or certain medications, especially those used to treat cancer and HIV/AIDS.

In some cases, especially for people over the age of sixty, no cause can be determined, even after extensive testing.

The Center for Peripheral Neuropathy at The University of Chicago Medical Center is committed to educating the public and healthcare providers about this disease, providing state-of-the-art care to patients affected by peripheral neuropathy, and contributing to basic and clinical research in an effort to identify the causes and potential cures for these disorders. The Center for Peripheral Neuropathy Clinic provides an evaluation of patients and recommendations with respect to the management of the neuropathy. In some cases, a clinical treatment trial may be available.

You can schedule an appointment with the neurology specialists of The Center for Peripheral Neuropathy by calling (773) 702-5659