Protecting the guardians

A guardian gene that protects against type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases exerts its pancreas-shielding effects by altering the gut microbiota. Experiments in mice born with the protective gene show that exposure to antibiotics during critical windows of development fuels risk for type 1 diabetes and leads to loss of genetic protection by altering the gut microbiota. Scientists say the findings underscore the importance of avoiding antibiotic use during late pregnancy and early infancy. …read more