Abstract
In the last two decades, diabetes research has advanced our understanding of the pathogenesis of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Genetic factors, environmental influences, and the immune responses of susceptible individuals are now known to play significant roles, separately and together. Research on animal models has helped elucidate the autoimmune process that leads to irreversible damage in the pancreatic islet cells of both animals and humans. Not only have current perspectives of pathogenesis of IDDM expanded, but the implications of recent research show promise for earlier intervention and possible prevention of this widespread disease in the future.
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