Endocrinology

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system destroys the insulin-secreting β-cells of the pancreas. It is diagnosed in children and young adults. Over 20 million people in the United State have diabetes, and 5 to 10% of all diagnosed cases of are Type 1. The disease is usually fatal unless some form of regular insulin therapy is implemented, and even then, afflicted individuals are at risk for a number of complications, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and neurological disorders. Because Type 1 Diabetes and its complications can be managed with rigorous therapy that keeps blood glucose levels in control, a significant amount of research is dedicated to understanding the biology of the pancrease, preventing the development of this disease, and finding more effective therapies for afflicted individuals.

Researchers in Endocrinology currently conducting Type 1 diabetes related research:

Eisenbarth, McDermott, Pugazhenthi

Recent Publications Coming Soon!