The key to a higher quality of life: Early detection

Investigators are evaluating whether an MRI can detect atherosclerosis, a condition in which an artery wall thickens as the result of a buildup of fatty materials such as cholesterol. The risk of atherosclerosis is accelerated by diabetes. Early detection can prevent the symptoms of atherosclerosis, which include heart attack, stroke and blood clots.

Researchers used a new type of blood test that identifies inflammation associated with type 1 diabetes though a unique genomic fingerprint. Remarkably, this fingerprint is evident years prior to disease onset. This discovery offers insight into the pathways responsible for type 1 diabetes. The fingerprint will be useful in identifying at-risk children earlier in the disease process and offers hope for earlier treatment and even delay or prevention of full-blown diabetes. The Journal of Immunology recently published this research.

Understanding the mechanisms by which type 1 diabetes develops is critical to the prediction of disease risk, prevention, treatment and, ultimately, the development of a cure.