The Diabetes Federation of Ireland is delighted with the news that researchers have discovered a virus that may be the cause of type 1 diabetes. Additional knowledge in this area offers hope for new methods of treatment and a possible cure. This research was on a small number of people and more widescale research and funding for research could potentially speed up the process of developing a vaccine.
Type 1 diabetes is caused by the autoimmune system of the body attacking the beta cells in the pancreas and results in diminished insulin production. Insulin is needed for the proper utilization of sugar and fats in the body. If the virus or infection that is currently thought to start of this reaction can be identified, than a vaccine might be possible to stop that process. How the virus contributes to Type 2 diabetes is less clearly understood.
While welcoming the research news published yesterday (Thursday 5 March), the reality of a vaccine is still a few years away as identifying the virus is only the first step. More importantly, the identification of a possible contributing factor to the development of diabetes and better understanding of the process of how diabetes develops offers opportunities for better management and possible new therapies.
The incidence of type 1 diabetes is increasing worldwide and here in Ireland. In addition, the age of diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is decreasing with the highest prevalence in the under 5 age group. There are over 2,500 young people with Type 1 diabetes and another 15,000 adults. Type 1 diabetes occurs in people who have a genetic disposition towards type 1 diabetes who are exposed to environmental factors and then possibly contract an infection/virus that triggers the autoimmune response that results in the development of type 1 diabetes over a matter of weeks/months. In twins, if one twin develops type 1 diabetes, then the other twin has a 40% risk of getting it. This confirms the genetic link. Type 1 diabetes can occur in clusters and its prevalence is more common is Spring and Autumn when common viruses and infections are doing the rounds. Identification of the infection/viruses is the first step in identifying a possible vaccine.
KOL/SGUA/06 Mar 2009