Live from the Lab with LJI Professor &T1D Expert Matthias von Herrath, M.D.
Mar 3, 2022On March 3, 2022, La Jolla Institute for Immunology Professor Matthias von Herrath, M.D., shared current theories on the leading causes of type 1 diabetes, as well as his latest research findings, which point in a promising new direction for the future of disease treatment. Expert insights during the virtual discussion were also provided by the Institute's Chief Executive Officer and President Erica Ollmann Saphire, Ph.D. Technical expertise was shared during the laboratory component of the presentation by von Herrath Laboratory Postdoctoral Researcher Estefania Quesada-Masachs, M.D., Ph.D. Dr. von Herrath's discussion focused on the hypothesis that there’s something in the pancreas driving its own destruction in type 1 diabetes, as scientists have found that beta cells draw harmful T cells to the pancreas prior to the onset of clinical signs of diabetes. His laboratory is testing the theory that there’s something wrong with the beta cells themselves. In this Live from the Lab discussion, Dr. von Herrath also described how he and his team are attempting to unlock the root of many autoimmune diseases, particularly type 1 diabetes – to ultimately achieve Life Without Disease®. The presentation ended with a live Q&A, with questions from participants.