We therefore propose to study the efficacy of arginine supplementation ( this is available over the counter as a food supplement) on endothelial function and other biomarkers of impaired endothelial function. We hope with this study to demonstrate that L-arginine supplementation will enhance nitric oxide availability, thereby improve the microcirculation and subsequently improve peripheral nerve function. We will use surrogate markers to assess the efficacy of L-arginine supplementation to show an improvement in diabetic complications such as microalbuminuria in the urine, and TcPO2 in the skin of the lower limbs. In addition microcirculation will be assessed using the Moor Laser Doppler flow machine and the Radiometer TcPO2 device. Endothelial function will also be assessed indirectly by measuring the cell adhesion molecules ICAM-1, VCAM-1, P-selectin and E-selectin. This will be performed using standard ELISA techniques.