Diabetes and Self-immunity

Diabetes is often associated with the immune system. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Damage to these cells causes the body to lose its ability to produce insulin, and therefore its ability to control blood sugar.

Self-immunity is when the immune system normally recognizes its own cells as foreign. In conditions such as type 1 diabetes, the self-immune process can cause the body to attack its own cells.

The self-immune system is not limited to Type 1 Diabetes. Many other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can also be caused by self-immune problems.

Scientists are working to understand and intervene in self-immunity processes. This could contribute to the development of more effective treatments and perhaps prevention methods in the future.

Managing diabetes usually involves insulin treatment, diet and exercise. Research shows that advances in understanding and regulating self-immune processes can contribute to the effective management and even prevention of diabetes.