Research methodologies in human diabetes

This comprehensive volume explores a wide range of research methodologies related to diabetes, covering both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It begins with the historical context of insulin discovery and progresses to the oral treatment of diabetes with sulphonylureas. Various epidemiological methodologies are examined for studying the aetiology of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), alongside concerns regarding the diagnosis of prediabetic states. Genetic patterns and immune mechanisms linked to IDDM are discussed, focusing on identifying susceptible individuals and interventions aimed at preventing or ameliorating Type 1 diabetes. The book details assays for measuring proinsulin and insulin dynamics, along with methodologies for characterizing prediabetic states and evaluating hypoglycaemia phenomena. It also addresses lipoprotein and triglyceride metabolism, intestinal glucose absorption, and cardiac autonomic neuropathy assessment. Additional topics include sodium-lithium countertransport, transcapillary escape rates, advanced glycosylation endproducts, and home glucose monitoring. The evaluation of patient education in diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, renal function, and economic analyses are also included. Finally, it presents methodologies for measuring glucose transporters and insulin receptors, concluding with the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki