research studies

research studies » current studies

In 2008, Morris Animal Foundation will fund nearly 200 new and continuing studies for dogs, cats, horses, llamas/alpacas, and wildlife as well as more than 40 veterinary student projects.

We also have numerous studies nearing completion. You can search our current study database by species and/or disease to learn more about the studies we are funding in the areas you care most about. The results will also show you whether a study is available for sponsorship.

Category



Disease/Species



Study



D07FE-621: A Novel Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Oral Superoxide Dismutase Enzyme Supplementation in Diabetic Cats

principal investigator: Ryan Keegan, Veterinary Student Scholar, Colorado State University

Full Sponsor: Joan Kirkpatrick

sponsorship not needed

Year: 1 of 1. $5,000

Oxidative stress caused by free radicals is a major source of cell and tissue damage. These radicals are produced in part when the cat's body metabolizes glucose and carbohydrates. When levels of glucose are consistently high due to diabetes mellitus, cats experience a subsequent increase in oxidative stress that is believed to be at least partially responsible for the complications seen in cats with the disease. This study will test the effectiveness of giving diabetic cats a supplement of superoxide dismutase, one of the body's primary antioxidants, to determine whether the supplement will decrease the amount of oxidative stress inflicted on cats with type 2 diabetic. The researchers hope this treatment will help limit the amount of damage and complications caused by diabetes.