The immune system of patients who suffer from type 1 diabetes destroys beta cells which produce insulin, a hormone responsible for metabolizing carbohydrates and fats while causing absorption of glucose in the liver and muscle. Without insulin, glucose levels in the blood are abnormally high and the body begins to use fats as sources of energy, causing side effects such as unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, severe tiredness, increased urination, and even agitation.
According to new results the tuberculosis vaccine bacillus Calmette-Guerin may fight off the proteins that kill beta cells and interfere with insulin production. Studies show that the tuberculosis vaccine triggers an increase in insulin production in 2 out of 3 patients. The tuberculosis vaccine is a less potent form of the commonly known disease, and helps to kill destructive cells in the immune system without affecting the healthy cells the body needs for protection.
Experiments are scheduled to be conducted to confirm this finding over the next several years. If successful, the tuberculosis vaccine could decrease side effects of type 1 diabetes, and diabetics may be able to enjoy lifestyle free of painful needles and syringes.
Sources:
http://www.healthaim.com/vaccine-may-reverse-diabetes/
http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/diabetes-statistics/