Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease caused by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic
β cells. Individuals with type 1 diabetes are reliant on insulin for survival. Despite
enhanced knowledge related to the pathophysiology of the disease, including interactions
between genetic, immune, and environmental contributions, and major strides in treatment
and management, disease burden remains high. Studies aimed at blocking the immune
attack on β cells in people at risk or individuals with very early onset type 1 diabetes
show promise in preserving endogenous insulin production.
Researchers at Washington University are preparing a new test of the so-called amyloid hypothesis, which has been at the root of research into Alzheimer s Disease for more than 100 years.