The Interplay Between Diet and the Epigenome in the Pathogenesis of Type-1 Diabetes

The autoimmune disease, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM), results in the destruction of pancreatic beta-cells, and the International Diabetes Federation reports that its incidence is increasing worldwide. T1DM is a complex disease due to the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Certain dietary patterns and nutrients are known to cause epigenetic modifications in physiological conditions and diseases. However, the interplay between diet and epigenetics is not yet well-understood in the context of T1DM. Several studies have described epigenetic mechanisms involved in the autoimmune reactions that destroy the beta-cells, but few explored diet components as potential triggers for epigenetic modifications. Clarifying the link between diet and epigenome can provide new insights into the pathogenesis of T1DM, potentially leading to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. In this mini review, we shed light on the influence of the diet-epigenome axis on the pathophysiology of T1DM.

Automated summary

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is a complex autoimmune disease with increasing incidence worldwide. The interplay between genetic and environmental factors contributes to its pathogenesis. The relationship between diet and epigenetics plays a significant role in the development of T1DM.