Advances in Type 1 Diabetes Science and Tech
October 14, 2025
2 min reading
The science of type 1 diabetes takes a while
Living with type 1 diabetes today is much easier than it was several decades ago. Things only get better
This article is part of “Innovations in: type 1 diabetes”, an editorially independent special report that was produced with the financial support of Summit.
A Just over a century ago, a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes was a death sentence. Today, thanks to extraordinary scientific advances, many people with type 1 diabetes, especially in developed countries, can live long, healthy lives. I am deeply grateful that my oldest son, now 16, was born into this era of possibility. His diagnosis in 2020 came at a time when innovation and advocacy had transformed what it meant to live with this chronic autoimmune disease. I’m excited to share this special Innovations In report, in which we explore the remarkable advances that are reshaping the landscape of type 1 diabetes research and care.
Science journalist Carrie Arnold tells the story of visionary entrepreneurs working to create an artificial pancreas, a closed-loop system that seamlessly integrates insulin pumps and glucose monitors to mimic the functioning of healthy beta cells. For many, this progress appears to be a cure.
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Yet the search for a real cure continues. Health journalist Tara Haelle looks at promising options, including beta cell transplants that would eliminate the need for immunosuppressive drugs. It also highlights the monoclonal antibody teplizumab, approved in 2022, which can delay the onset of symptomatic type 1 diabetes by five years or more in some people – an important step in preventive medicine.
As science advances, the number of cases of type 1 diabetes is increasing. Statistical visualizations from data journalist Miriam Quick and senior graphics editor Jen Christiansen illustrate this troubling trend and expose stark disparities in care. In wealthy countries like the United Arab Emirates, a child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can live almost their entire life. On the other hand, a child in Niger could lose up to 50 years compared to the national average.
Associate Editor Lauren J. Young introduces us to five exceptional people working to fill these gaps, including a radiology specialist who joined forces with other mothers to distribute insulin and establish an education program across Venezuela, as well as clinicians trying to alleviate diabetes-related distress and improve mental health. Their stories are deeply moving.
Health reporter Liz Szabo explores progress in preventing or stopping diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Science journalist Rachel Nuwer describes advances in genetic testing aimed at identifying children at high risk of developing type 1 diabetes. This information could be life-changing as new treatments emerge.
Although managing type 1 diabetes will continue to be a 24/7 effort for now, I have realistic hope that a cure will emerge within my son’s lifetime.
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