Annika Grönberg: Predictors of long-term glycemic control, pancreatic function and BMI trajectory in children with type 1 diabetes

  • Date: 11 May 2023, 09:15
  • Location: Rudbecksalen, Rudbeck entréplan C11, Uppsala
  • Type: Thesis defence
  • Thesis author: Annika Grönberg
  • External reviewer: Gun Forsander
  • Supervisors: Per-Ola Carlsson, Anders Forslund, Klas Ekström
  • Research subject: Endocrinology and Diabetology
  • DiVA

Abstract

Background: The maintenance of normal metabolic control underpins all management of insulin dependent diabetes whether in terms of preserved beta-cell function, body composition, or family support. The hypothesis of this work was that preserved C-peptide predicts better glycemic control and lowers risk of severe hypoglycemia. It was additionally investigated whether Body Mass Index (BMI) and family structure contributes to the prediction of long-term glycemic control. 

Objectives: This thesis aimed to 1) identify the factors associated with residual C peptide production at least 10 years after diagnosis, 2) evaluate the association of BMI trajectory and long-term glycemic control, 3) identify early characteristics associated with rapid or slow decline of beta-cell function and how it affects the clinical course, and 4) investigate the relations of family structure at diagnosis and long-term glycemic control. 

Methods: Data from four cohorts were used: In the Uppsala cohort, measurement of long-term residual C-peptide was undertaken using ultrasensitive C-peptide ELISA in 73 children and adolescents <25 years, BMI trajectory prior diagnosis was evaluated in 295 children, while family structure at diagnosis was evaluated in 215 children in relation to glycemic control. In the Linköping cohort, stimulated C-peptide was assessed by mixed meal tolerance test in 50 children. 

Results: The cohort studies showed that better early glycemic control predicted long term residual C-peptide and that long term residual C-peptide, in turn, was protective against severe hypoglycemia. Additionally, BMI trajectory was predicted by BMI prior to the presentation of type 1 diabetes. There was no association with glycemic outcome. Children living in a whole family had a lower probability of long-term dysglycemia. 

Conclusions: Residual C-peptide is important for better glycemic control and to reduce complications in children with type 1 diabetes. Family structure, but not BMI trajectory, contributes to the prediction of long-term glycemic control. However, more research is needed to understand how to preserve the beta-cell function in children and to target and support families in those children with early deteriorating glycemic control to reduce future complications. 

 

FOLLOW UPPSALA UNIVERSITY ON

facebook
instagram
twitter
youtube
linkedin