Strategies to prevent type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune condition resulting from T cell-mediated destruction of the insulin-producing cells in the islets of Langerhans. Its primary cause remains unknown, but it has been established that the clinical presentation is preceded by a long prodrome. This enables individuals at high risk of disease to be identified and offers the possibility of intervention to prevent clinical disease. Many groups are working in this field, concentrating on manipulation of environmental exposures that are potential triggers of autoimmunity and on immunomodulation strategies that aim to prevent destruction of beta-cells. Some interventions have shown promising results in early trials, but effective disease prevention remains elusive. This article reviews current progress in the field.