GLP-1 Agonists for Metabolic Health in Early Type 1 Diabetes with Teplizumab
Background
Type 1 Diabetes (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Individuals with Stage 2 T1DM still produce some insulin but show signs of autoimmunity and dysglycemia, making it a critical window for intervention. Teplizumab is a groundbreaking immunotherapy recently approved to delay the onset of Stage 3 T1DM (clinical diagnosis) in individuals with Stage 2 T1DM, offering a chance to extend the 'honeymoon phase.' However, despite delaying progression, metabolic challenges such as impaired glucose regulation and potential cardiovascular risks persist. This study addresses the critical knowledge gap of how glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1Ra) impact metabolic outcomes and cardiovascular health in individuals with Stage 2 T1DM who are already receiving teplizumab treatment, exploring a potential synergistic therapeutic approach.