New hope for young people with type 1 diabetes: the Meyer research in Florence
An international study is testing a new drug that can preserve the function of pancreas beta cells
Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that mainly affects children and adolescents, is a major challenge for the scientific community. The progressive destruction of the beta cells in the pancreas, which are responsible for producing insulin, leads to increased blood sugar levels and numerous complications.
Breakthrough in research
Today, thanks to research conducted by the AOU Meyer Irccs in Florence, a new chapter in the fight against this disease is opened. The Florentine children’s hospital is in fact the only Italian centre involved in an international study that is testing a new drug capable of preserving the function of the beta cells of the pancreas.
How does the new drug work?
Type 1 diabetes is caused by a malfunction of the immune system that mistakenly attacks beta cells. The new drug, a monoclonal antibody, acts on this mechanism by protecting beta cells from the attack of the immune system. This could slow down the progression of the disease and reduce the need for external insulin.
The Fabulinus study
The study, called Fabulinus, is a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving a significant number of patients aged 12 to 35 years, Recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Patients are followed up over time to assess the effectiveness of the new drug in preserving beta cell function and improving glycemic control.
Preliminary results
The first results of the study are very promising and suggest that the new drug could represent a breakthrough in the treatment of type 1 diabetes. However, further confirmatory studies are needed on more patients and for longer periods of time.
Why is this discovery so important?
Preserving beta cell function is crucial to improving the quality of life of patients with type 1 diabetes. Good glycemic control can prevent or delay long-term complications of the disease, such as as cardiovascular diseases, retinopathy and neuropathy. In addition, the possibility of reducing dependence on external insulin would greatly simplify the daily management of the disease and improve the autonomy of patients, especially the youngest.
The future of type 1 diabetes care
Research on type 1 diabetes is constantly evolving. Many advances have been made in recent years, but there is still a long way to go. The Fabulinus study represents an important step in this direction and opens new perspectives for the development of increasingly effective and personalized therapies.
Sources and images