An experimental drug based on monoclonal antibodies protected the liver of mice from the development of type 1 diabetes. Test results published in the journal Diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This disrupts blood sugar control. Patients can experience paralysis and vision problems if they do not control the disease properly.
In a new study, scientists tested the drug mAb43. It is based on a monoclonal antibody obtained by cloning (creating identical copies) of animal cells. They bind to a special protein on the surface of pancreatic beta cells. This protected the organ from damage by the immune system.
The drug was given to 64 mice with early type 1 diabetes. After 35 weeks, all mice were free of disease. When the drug was started at a later stage, the mice had a longer lifespan compared to animals that did not receive the drug (75 weeks versus 18-40 weeks).
The authors noted that they used a mouse version of the monoclonal antibody and that the development of a humanized version would be necessary for human studies.
Previous scientists to create Link between cancer and an autoimmune disease that affects the joints.
What are you thinking?
Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.