What is type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks cells in the pancreas that produce insulin (beta cells). Insulin is important because it helps keep blood sugar (glucose) levels normal.

For a period right after diagnosis, not all of a person’s beta cells have been destroyed—between 15-40% remain, and the pancreas is still able to make small amounts of insulin.

The goal of the Immune Tolerance Network’s (ITN) type 1 diabetes clinical trials is to find new therapies that can slow or stop the immune attack and preserve the remaining insulin-producing cells.

Even small amounts of naturally-produced insulin can improve blood sugar control, make daily management of diabetes easier and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Your beta cells are precious. Help us learn how to save them.