It is well known that hyperglycemia is the predominant manifestation in diabetes mellitus, and the most common complication of DM is diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). The aim of this short communication was to provide an insightful overview of the molecular basis of DPN by assimilating evidence on the role of oxidative stress. Existing evidence indicated that oxidative stress might be a final common pathway in the development of diabetic neuropathy, and that antioxidants could prevent or reverse hyperglycemia-induced nerve dysfunction. The effects of antioxidants were hypothesized to be mediated by correction of nutritive blood flow, and endoneurial oxidative state; and antioxidant drugs such as alpha-lipoic acid and vitamin E were therapeutically indicated.

Keywords: Molecular endocrinology; Molecular neurology; Diabetic neuropathy; Oxidative stress.