Type 1 diabetes mellitus: autoimmune mechanisms

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin—producing cells of the pancreas. The exact cause of this autoimmune response is unknown, but it is believed to be related to both genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes usually develop quickly and include excessive thirst and hunger, frequent urination, blurred vision and fatigue. There is no cure for type 1 diabetes, and treatment involves monitoring blood glucose levels with insulin therapy and monitoring.

Studies of the autoimmune mechanisms involved in type 1 diabetes are ongoing. There are promising developments in the use of immunotherapy to prevent or slow the development of type 1 diabetes.