Pacific Northwest Diabetes Research Institute Programs
PNDRI's Newborn Diabetes Screening is an innovative program that looks to discover which children in the general pediatric population are predisposed for Type I Diabetes (TID) due to their genetic makeup. PNDRI's program screens newborns in hospitals Washington State for a particular diabetes-enabling gene. Those with TID have this gene and testing for it gives PNDRI scientists an idea who might be at risk for diabetes.
PNDRI began a study that examines the role powerful antioxidants play in managing blood glucose levels. Pre-clinical research showed that these antioxidants can reverse hyperglycemia that initially develops in Type II diabetes. (Hyperglycemia destroys pancreatic beta cells, thereby propagating the disease.) By enhancing these cells with antioxidant defenses, PNDRI's work could prevent - or perhaps even reverse - the deterioration of beta cell function so characteristic of Type II diabetes.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Currently, PNDRI has several initiatives happening.
- Type 1 Diabetes Initiative - This is a special initiative to raise support to predict, prevent and cure type 1 diabetes.
- Antioxidant Clinical Trials - PNDRI is testing potent antioxidants in humans to determine their ability to normalize blood sugar levels.
- Leveraged Support - PNDRI receives federal support to conduct science and research but that support must be matched with private philanthropy and we need your help!