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

Type 1 diabetes is a complex autoimmune condition where the Insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas are damaged, and currently, there is no way to forecast how a disease will progress in a particular person.

For the study, the researchers evaluated blood samples that were collected for the international INNODIA alliance. Rapid disease progression was discovered to be correlated with a specific gene expression pattern. Thirty-one academic institutions, six industry partners, a small business, and two patient organizations together form INNODIA with a single aim to fight and win over type 1 diabetes. It analyses samples and information from newly diagnosed type 1 diabetic patients and unaffected first-degree relatives across Europe.

Scientists predicted that the INNODIA study would contribute to a better understanding of the interaction between alterations in immunological profiles, genetic and environmental factors, and their role in the development of the disease.

The advantage of such a predictive signature would be the potential for early disease intervention, slowing the diseases progression and possibly preventing or delaying the start of symptoms. Additionally, better monitoring of the disease progression with such interventions would aid in creating more individualized treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.

(Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230529/Gene-expression-signature-associated-with-rapid-progression-of-type-1-diabetes.aspx)