Intestinal Bacteria Influence Type 1 Diabetes

In mice, the composition of the intestinal flora influences the risk of contracting type 1 diabetes. Scientists at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research in Leipzig have worked with special mice, which are particularly prone to developing type 1 diabetes. Usually, females are more susceptible than males. Prior to the disease manifesting itself, the scientists transferred the intestinal bacteria of male animals to females. It became apparent that females treated in this way developed immunity against a multitude of diabetes symptoms. They displayed also increased levels of the male sexual hormone testosterone, which the authors hold responsible for the preventive effect.

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Martin Trinkaus

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