Did you know that if risk screening results show you are in the early stages of T1D, you may be eligible to participate in a type 1 diabetes prevention study?

At these initial stages, the body has developed antibodies against beta cells. However, not many beta cells have been destroyed, so people do not have symptoms and do not require insulin. Without intervention, for nearly everyone who has two or more autoantibodies, beta cells destruction will progress over time to the point that external insulin is needed.

T1D risk screening involves a simple blood test that can detect antibodies, indicating you are in the early stages of T1D, when beta cell destruction is minimal.

Participating in the Pathway to Prevention risk screening study is the first step for participating in TrialNet’s prevention trials. These studies aim to interrupt disease progression in individuals who are in the pre-symptomatic stages of T1D. Luckily for us in the Pacific Northwest, Benaroya Research Institute (BRI) in Seattle is a major site for TrialNet and they are currently recruiting for a prevention trial:

In addition, BRI is actively recruiting for three additional early intervention trials for those diagnosed with T1D within the last 100 days:

• JAKPOT: This study is looking at two drugs in the JAK inhibitor class to see if they can preserve the body’s own insulin production in people with newly diagnosed T1D ages 12-35 years. Learn more about the JAKPOT Study.
• RELAY: This study is looking at whether two drugs, rituximab and abatacept, given one after the other, can prolong insulin production in people with newly diagnosed T1D ages 8-45 years. Learn more about the RELAY Study.
• FABULINUS: This study is looking at the safety and efficacy of different doses of a novel monoclonal antibody, frexalimab, in preserving the body’s own insulin production in people with newly diagnosed T1D ages 18-35 years. Learn more about the FABULINUS Study.

While cures are not coming tomorrow, they are coming. Through research studies like the ones above, advancements in treatment options continue to move forward. Tzield, the first and only disease modifying therapy in autoimmune type 1 diabetes, was made possible by the contributions of clinical research participants. The more of us who participate, the faster the progress for future treatment options for all!