Australian researchers have launched the world's first human trial of a drug to treat the root cause of type 1 diabetes.
For 25 years, rheumatologist and academic Ranjeny Thomas has been working on innovative therapy. L’phase 1 trial involving 36 adult participants is currently underway. The treatment is designed to protect pancreatic cells in people recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
This autoimmune disease is not linked to lifestyle factors. People who have it often need to inject insulin several times a day to control their blood sugar levels. The implications of diabetes are numerous: it is a lifelong disease. ", said Aakansha Zala, principal investigator of the trial.
The goal of this treatment is to stop the progression of the disease and reduce dependence on insulin. The risks are significant. If the drug proves safe and effective, future trials could be extended to children.
