UCF Researcher Explores Insulin Signaling as New Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment

Groundbreaking study aims to target insulin dysregulation to prevent nerve degeneration.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:04pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray image revealing the intricate neural network of a human foot, with ghostly glowing lines representing the complex structures and signaling pathways that are the focus of research into new treatments for diabetic neuropathy.A groundbreaking study at the University of Central Florida explores new ways to target the underlying mechanisms of diabetic neuropathy, offering hope for improved treatments and better quality of life for those affected by this debilitating condition.Today in Orlando

A University of Central Florida (UCF) researcher has been awarded a $747,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health to explore a novel approach to treating diabetic neuropathy. The study, led by Assistant Professor Dr. Jim Nichols, focuses on the role of insulin signaling in the development of this debilitating condition that affects many Type 1 diabetes patients.

Why it matters

Current treatments for diabetic neuropathy, such as opioids and antidepressants, only provide temporary relief. Dr. Nichols' research aims to uncover new pathways that can be manipulated to prevent nerve degeneration, offering a more sustainable solution for diabetic patients who often have limited options for managing neuropathic pain.

The details

Dr. Nichols believes that irregularities in the insulin signaling pathway within peripheral nerves may be the key to understanding and treating diabetic neuropathy. His research examines the behavior of neurons, their signaling systems, and surrounding cells, with the goal of regulating these processes to alleviate the symptoms of neuropathy.

  • The research project was recently awarded a $747,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health.
  • The study is currently underway at the University of Central Florida.

The players

Dr. Jim Nichols

An assistant professor at the University of Central Florida and the lead researcher on the study exploring insulin signaling as a new target for treating diabetic neuropathy.

Chisom Akaniru

A Ph.D. student at UCF who is part of Dr. Nichols' research team, driven by a personal connection to the research due to her parents' struggles with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy.

Hollie Hayes

A former UCF graduate student who is passionate about advancing science to help those suffering from chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain.

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What they’re saying

“We must find better therapies, especially for diabetic patients, who often face limited options for managing neuropathic pain.”

— Dr. Jim Nichols, Assistant Professor, University of Central Florida

“I'm driven by my parents' struggles with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, and I'm passionate about this research to help those affected by chronic pain.”

— Chisom Akaniru, Ph.D. Student, University of Central Florida

What’s next

The UCF research team, including graduate students Chisom Akaniru and Hollie Hayes, will continue their work to uncover new pathways that can be manipulated to prevent nerve degeneration and alleviate the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

The takeaway

This groundbreaking research at the University of Central Florida holds promise for improving the quality of life for those affected by diabetic neuropathy, a debilitating condition that currently has limited treatment options. By targeting insulin signaling, the study aims to revolutionize the approach to managing this chronic condition.