Bid to Beat Diabetes

[L to R]: Jayden Madeley, his mum Sherelle Hodges & Professor Grant Morahan

More than 100,000 Australians live with Type 1 diabetes and with the prevalence of the disease increasing by about 3% each year, genetic research into the condition is vital. In partnership with the Diabetes Research Foundation, WAIMR's Diabetes Research Unit, headed by world expert Professor Grant Morahan, is investigating the IL12B gene.

The gene, which can increase a person's risk of developing Type 1 diabetes, could also help researchers uncover ways to prevent Type 1 diabetes. While the gene is involved in regulating the body's immune response, scientists from WAIMR have now also discovered that it contributes to the development of other diseases, such as cerebral malaria, severe asthma, HIV complications and some skin conditions. The finding may help speed up the process of developing preventive treatments.

In people with Type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas cells that produce insulin. A particular variant of the IL12B gene leads to a more aggressive immune response, resulting in the onset of diabetes. Scientists hope to discover how to divert the immune response exacerbated by the gene; if they can do this, it could potentially stop people developing Type 1 diabetes. Perth families were recruited to help with the research by providing DNA samples as part of a worldwide study funded by the US National Institutes of Health.

In another exciting initiative, Professor Morahan is leading the push to set up a nationwide DNA database for diabetes. The creation of the Australian Childhood Diabetes DNA Repository is being funded by a $1.78 million dollar grant from the NHMRC, with additional support from WAIMR, the Diabetes Research Foundation and the University of Western Australia. Three thousand Australian families with children affected by Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are being asked to join the initiative which could help speed up the search for better treatments and the ultimate prevention of the condition.