Pathomechanism and Islet Autoimmunity
There is increasing evidence that different phenotypes of type 1 diabetes exist and it is likely that various triggers can lead to the initiation of islet autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes. We investigate mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of islet autoimmunity and progression from islet autoimmunity to type 1 diabetes in children with high risk for the disease.
We are focusing on genetics, gene function, immune response and interactions between immune system and environment. For this purpose we investigate the microbiome, influences of bacterial and viral infections on the development of islet autoimmunity as well as specific nutritional compounds (e.g. dietary fibers, probiotics and vitamins). We also analyze the maturation and formation of the immune system in children delivered by Caesarian section to understand why they have a higher risk for type 1 diabetes. We intensively address the issue to which part the heterogeneity of this disease is determined by the genetic variability, in particular the existence of specific diabetes associated genotypes and to what extent the diabetic phenotypes differ with respect to immune response, gene expression and proteomics.
Contact person: Prof. Dr. med. Anette-Gabriele Ziegler
Phone: +49-(0)89 / 3187 - 2896
Email: prevent.diabetes@lrz.uni-muenchen.de