PNNL

Abstract

The autoimmune disease type 1 diabetes (T1D) often develops at an early age, leaving children permanently dependent on exogenous insulin. Current biomarkers to track T1D are extremely limited, with hyperglycemia being the most widespread sign for the final stages of progression and development. To better track disease initiation and progression for improved prognosis, additional T1D biomarkers must be developed. Using PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of proteomics studies of T1D to identify putative protein biomarkers of disease initiation and progression. A total of 12 studies met our inclusion criteria of mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics performed on serum or plasma samples, resulting in the identification of 211 unique proteins, with 48 (23%) being identified across multiple studies. These circulating protein biomarkers were found to be part of complement, lipid metabolism and immune response pathways. All of which are found to be dysregulated in T1D patients. We further provide a temporal understand of changes in protein biomarkers expression in context of T1D disease initiation (pre-seroconversion) and progression (post-seroconversion and post-diagnosis). This review provides a basis for new biomarker identification and validation. We hope will contribute to improve our ability to detect and treat T1D in early stages, provide potential disease prognosis and help develop novel therapeutic targets.