Type 1 diabetes is a common autoimmune disease in which progressive loss of pancreatic beta cells results in lifelong dependence on insulin. Despite rapid advances in the technology for insulin delivery and glucose monitoring, it remains challenging for patients to reach optimal glycemic control to prevent the serious long-term complications associated with type 1 diabetes. Even modest amounts of endogenous insulin production provide substantial benefits by improving glycemic control and reducing the risk of hypoglycemia and vascular complications. Effective interventions that preserve beta cell function both before and after the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes are therefore enormously welcome.
Source: JAMA Online First