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New Publication from the Thompson Lab!

June 13, 2025
By: Stephanie Manthanarack

Congratulations to the Thompson lab on their newest publication in Diabetes Journal, led by Dr. Thompson’s amazing PhD student Jasmine Pipella!

Abstract: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) happens when the immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas (called beta cells) that produce insulin. In addition to killing these cells, this study shows that certain immune cells (CD4+ and CD8+ T cells) also cause some beta cells to enter a state called “senescence,” where the cells are still alive but stop functioning properly. This process happens even before full-blown diabetes develops. The researchers found that targeting these immune cells with a type of immunotherapy (CD3 antibodies) can help reduce the number of senescent beta cells and may help slow down the disease. This new understanding may open doors to better ways to protect beta cells and treat or prevent T1D.

Click here to read the article.