Gene expression signature associated with rapid progression of type 1 diabetes

Researchers from Turku Bioscience Centre and InFLAMES Flagship at the University of Turku in Finland, have identified a gene expression signature that can predict the progression of type 1 diabetes.

Gene expression signature associated with rapid progression of type 1 diabetes
In addition to Riitta Lahesmaa and Laura Elo, the first authors of the article included (from left) Senior Researher Ubaid Kalim, Postdoctoral Researcher Tomi Suomi and Doctoral Researcher Inna Starskaia. Kuvaaja/Tekijä. Liisa Koivula. Image Credit: University of Turku

The study led by Professor Laura Elo and Professor Riitta Lahesmaa aimed to identify transcriptional changes associated with disease progression in patients with recent-onset type 1 diabetes.

The researchers analyzed blood samples collected as part of the global INNODIA partnership. A certain gene expression signature was found to be associated with rapid disease progression.

"One benefit of such predictive signature would be the ability to intervene earlier in the disease process. This could help slow the progression of the disease and potentially prevent or delay the onset of symptoms. Another benefit would be improved monitoring of the disease progression, which would allow for more personalized treatment plans and better outcomes for patients", Elo and Lahesmaa explain.

Type 1 diabetes is a complex autoimmune disease where insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas are destroyed. Disease progression varies between individuals and currently there is no way to predict individual outcomes.

Patients are involved in INNODIA

INNODIA is a global partnership between 31 academic institutions, six industrial partners, a small-sized enterprise, and two patient organizations. Their common goal is to fight type 1 diabetes.

INNODIA examines samples and data from newly diagnosed patients with type 1 diabetes and unaffected first-degree relatives throughout Europe. The project runs under the framework of the European Union´s Innovative Medicines Initiative - Joint Undertaking (IMI-JU) with a dedicated governance.

Importantly, INNODIA is closely guided by the patients themselves, through the Patient Advisory Committee, consisting of a group of type 1 diabetes patients and parents. They give continuous feedback on the concept of INNODIA and development of protocols, and are crucial in disseminating the goals of the project to the public."  

Professor Riitta Lahesmaa

Lahesmaa mentions that thanks to the INNODIA research, the science community will be able to better understand the relationship between changes in β-cell function, immune profiles, genetic and environmental factors and their role in the onset of the disease.

Source:
Journal reference:

Suomi, T., et al. (2023) Gene expression signature predicts rate of type 1 diabetes progression. eBioMedicine. doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104625.

Comments

The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of News Medical.
Post a new comment
Post

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.

You might also like...
Rice University leads development of innovative bioelectronic implant for obesity and diabetes