Researchers identify gene expression signature that predicts progression of type 1 diabetes

In a study published in the journal eBioMedicine, researchers have identified a gene expression signature that can predict the progression of type 1 diabetes.
The study led by Professor Laura Elo and Professor Riitta Lahesmaa from the University of Turku in Finland 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.
INNODIA is a global partnership between 31 academic institutions and six industrial partners. Their common goal is to fight type 1 diabetes.
The researchers identified a signature of 16 genes that can predict disease progression. Identifying such a predictive gene signature could help determine more personalized clinical and treatment interventions for each patient.