A cure for type 1 diabetes has been in the works for decades, but the path to getting there has never been straightforward. Researchers have spent years trying to find ways to prevent the disease, slow its progression, preserve the beta cells that remain, and replace the cells that have already been lost. We’ve spoken with two people already functionally cured of type 1 diabetes—Patti Columbe and Katie Beth—who participated in the Vertex and Eledon trials, respectively.

On this episode of the podcast, we speak with Dr. Kent Jensen, Dr. Michael J. Haller, and Dr. Rayhan A. Lal, three researchers working across different areas of type 1 diabetes cure research. We get into what qualifies as a cure, why replacing beta cells isn't enough on its own, and how the immune system continues to complicate the picture. We also break down the three stages of the cure - prevent, delay, and cure. And discuss therapies including teplizumab (Tzield), ATG, and verapamil that are already being studied or used to preserve beta cell function.

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation, with Part 2 coming next week, where we'll continue the discussion and dive even deeper into what a cure could look like.

Listen to the full episode above or watch it below. The episode is also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Youtube.

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