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[Protective effect of vitamin A on residual pancreatic β cell function in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus]

Yong-Xing Chen1, Qiong Chen, Ying-Xian Zhang

  • 1Department of Endocrinology and Inherited Metabolism, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University/Henan Children's Hospital/Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450000, China. haiyanwei2009@163.com.

Zhongguo Dang Dai Er Ke Za Zhi = Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics
|December 22, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Vitamin A supplementation may preserve pancreatic beta cell function in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This intervention reduced interleukin-17 (IL-17) levels and improved insulin sensitivity.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of pancreatic beta cells.
  • Residual beta cell function is crucial for glycemic control and long-term outcomes in T1DM.
  • Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is implicated in autoimmune inflammation and beta cell destruction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the protective effects of vitamin A on residual pancreatic beta cell function in children with T1DM.
  • To explore the potential mechanism involving IL-17 modulation.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized controlled trial involving 46 children with T1DM and 25 healthy controls.
  • Intervention group received vitamin A (1500-2000 IU/day) alongside insulin therapy.
  • Measurements included glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C), stimulated C-peptide, vitamin A, and IL-17 levels before and after 3 months.

Main Results:

  • Children with T1DM had lower vitamin A and higher IL-17 levels compared to controls.
  • Vitamin A intervention significantly reduced IL-17 levels and insulin requirements.
  • The intervention group showed significantly higher stimulated C-peptide levels post-treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Vitamin A supplementation appears to protect residual pancreatic beta cell function in T1DM.
  • The protective effect may be mediated by the modulation of IL-17 secretion.
  • Vitamin A is a potential therapeutic adjunct for managing T1DM in children.
Abstract

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