The pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) involves genetic and environmental factors. However, the process is complex and poorly understood. Research from the past few years has indicated that viral infections, particularly infection with enteroviruses, are associated with the development of T1DM. In addition, Knut Dahl-Jørgensen’s research group had previously detected a low-grade infection with live enteroviruses in the insulin-producing areas of the pancreas at the onset of disease (see image). These findings raise the possibility that antivirals could be used in the treatment of new-onset T1DM; this approach has now been tested in a phase II study from Knut Dahl-Jørgensen and colleagues.

1型糖尿病（T1DM）的发病机制涉及遗传和环境因素。然而，这个过程很复杂并且人们对其知之甚少。过去几年的研究表明，病毒感染，特别是肠道病毒感染，与T1DM的发生有关。此外，Knut Dahl-Jørgensen 的研究小组此前曾在发病时在胰腺的胰岛素产生区域检测到活肠道病毒的低度感染（见图）。这些发现提出了抗病毒药物可用于治疗新发 T1DM 的可能性；这种方法现已在 Knut Dahl-Jørgensen 及其同事的 II 期研究中进行了测试。