08 Apr 2009
The findings showed that by eight weeks of age NOD offspring demonstrated a reduction in serum and pancreatic insulin content, and the number of pancreatic islets demonstrating peri-insulitis. Female offspring had a significantly reduced number of islets and a reduction in islet area, and a delayed onset of diabetes was seen in both male and female offspring. Measurement of cytotoxic cytokines showed that these levels decreased in NOD mice, leading the authors to suggest that both immune and beta cell alterations are likely to play a role in the mechanism by which a low protein diet delays the onset of diabetes.
Chamson-Reig, A., Arany, E., Summers, K., Hill, D. Journal of Endocrinology 2009, 201 DOI:10.1677/JOE-09-0002