Researchers at the University of Windsor are casting new light on the early stages of diabetes. Literally.

Dr. Bulent Mutus, a chemist at Windsor, is exploring the use of light to test for the presence of nitric oxide in the lining of blood vessels. Insufficient levels of the substance can make vessel walls “sticky,” leading to a higher risk of blood clots—a condition that frequently precedes or accompanies diabetes. The test involves injecting a “fluorescent probe” of light-sensitive molecules into sample cells. The cells are then exposed to certain wavelengths of light, and if nitric oxide is present, the probe molecules flash—“fluoresce”—in response.

Dr. Mutus’ research is a critical step in establishing a potential new approach to treatment that could greatly reduce the risk of blood clot formation and arterial degeneration in diabetic patients. The approach involves the use of commonly-available anti-cholesterol drugs that enhance the production of nitric oxide. “These are drugs that are currently in use and are readily available through any physician,” explains Dr. Mutus. “It’s a tremendously exciting prospect because we’re expecting that the benefit to these other patients will be significant.”

To create and detect the fluorescent response, Dr. Mutus depends on sophisticated imaging equipment at the university’s Biomolecular Characterization and Dynamics Research Facility—equipment funded in part by the Ontario Innovation Trust. Dr. Mutus and his colleagues are also using the facility to explore other avenues of “photo-biology,” including cancer treatments that involve injecting an anti-cancer agent into a tumour, then activating it with light.