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Multiple Low Dose Streptozotocin (MLD-STZ) Induced Diabetes

Streptozotocin (STZ) is a broad spectrum antibiotic with carcinolytic, carcinogenic and diabetogenic properties. The diabetogenic or beta cell toxic properties of this compound lead to its use in humans to treat beta cell carcinomas and in animal models of diabetes. A single high dose of STZ results in a rapidly developing non-immune mediated diabetes, which is commonly used for non-insulin dependant type 2 diabetes myelitis. Giving 5 sub-diabetic doses (multiple low dose or MLD) of STZ results in a more slowly developing form of diabetes that is considered to be immune mediated.

The MLD-STZ induced diabetes is characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration of the pancreatic islets (insulitis) and subsequent destruction of beta cells, and is used as a model for insulin dependant type I diabetes myelitis.

 

STZ-Diabetic Neuropathy

Pain associated with this model is a direct destruction of the nerve associated with high levels of glucose.

Type I Diabetes

Type I Diabetes is the second most chronic disease in children. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys the insulin producing beta cells in the pancreas. The function of insulin is to increase blood glucose uptake into the cells, returning the blood glucose to optimal levels. To date, there is no cure for type I diabetes and proper management of the disease is essential to avoid the risk of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, both of which are life threatening concerns.