Virus-induced diabetes in mice

Encephalomyocarditis (EMC) virus infects and destroys pancreatic beta cells when inoculated into mice. This results in hypoinsulinemia and hyperglycemia. The development of virus-induced diabetes is dependent on the genetic background of the host and the genetic makeup of the virus. In addition to the acute metabolic changes, animals with diabetes for six months show some long-term complications, including reduced life span, glomerulosclerosis, and ocular changes. The development of virus-induced diabetes in mice can be prevented by a live attenuated vaccine.