Immunology of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

We have attempted to illustrate the major trends in research in human IDDM and in the animal models of this disease. We have stressed the utility and importance of the animal models. Their contribution to understanding the human disease is great but the limitations inherent in their use should also be evident. Extrapolation from rodent to human is always treacherous. Nonetheless, the animals still offer great promise in unraveling the pathogenesis of diabetes. The excellent results obtained in BB rats have already led to the use of cyclosporin in human trials. It is clear that we have learned a great deal from diabetic animals and that they have a good deal yet to teach us. Hopefully, an enhanced understanding of the pathogenesis of human insulin-dependent diabetes will follow and lead to preventive and curative therapies that are both safe and effective.