Type 1 diabetes. From biomarkers to prevention

Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune disease that leads to the destruction of insulin-secreting cells by the immune system. The auto-immune response to insulin-secreting cells, from the expansion of autoreactive lymphocytes to the activation of effectors involved in the destruction of insulin-secreting cells, has been extensively defined in preclinical models of type 1 diabetes. However, underlying mechanisms initiating the autoimmune process remain ill-defined. The type I diabetes challenge is in relating immune mechanisms involved with new therapeutic strategies that will lead to disease prevention. The identification of new biomarkers is a prerequisite for progress towards preventive strategies.