COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE MORPHO-MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF RED BLOOD CELLS EXTRACTED FROM DIABETIC PATIENTS WITH AND WITHOUT MICROVASCULAR COMPLICATIONS

Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS48 enrolled

Overview

The aim of the study is to analyse the biomechanical stiffness of red blood cells extracted from subjects with type I diabetes with and without microvascular complications through a biophysical characterization of red blood cells using microscopy, spectroscopy and scattering measurements. 48 subjects with type 1 diabetes, 24 with and 24 without microvascular complications will be enrolled. From all subjects a single blood sample will be taken to perform the analysis of red blood cells morpho-mechanical properties.

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Enrollment

Conditions

Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1

Interventions

Blood test - atomic force microscopy in the force spectroscopy modeDIAGNOSTIC_TEST

A single blood test to be analysed through atomic force microscopy in the force spectroscopy mode

Eligibility

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of type 1 diabetes for at least 10 years * Stable metabolic control (HbA1c \<7.5%) for at least 6 months * BMI between 18.5 and 30 Kg/m\^2 * Systolic blood pressure \< 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure \<90 mmHg Exclusion Criteria: * Blood pressure higher than 140/90 mmHg * Unstable metabolic control (HbA1c \>7.5%) * BMI \> 30 Kg/m\^2 or \< 18.5 Kg/m\^2 * Liver failure * Concomitant acute infections * Uncontrolled thyroid diseases * Pregnancy

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

In 48 subjects with type 1 diabetes with and without microvascular complications, the average stiffness of red blood cells, measured using atomic force microscope and quantified using Young's modulus, will be measured.

Young's modulus values are obtained using atomic force microscopy

Time frame: 1 day