β cells are responsible for CXCR3-mediated T-cell infiltration in insulitis

Abstract

T cell–mediated loss of insulin-secreting β cells in the islets of Langerhans is the hallmark of type 1 diabetes. The molecular basis for the directed migration of autoreactive T cells leading to insulitis is presently unknown. Here we demonstrate that in response to inflammation, β cells secrete the chemokines CXC ligand 10 and CXC ligand 9, which specifically attract T-effector cells via the CXC chemokine receptor 3. In mice deficient for this receptor, the onset of type 1 diabetes is substantially delayed. Thus, in the absence of known etiological agents, CXC receptor 3 represents a novel target for therapeutic interference early in type 1 diabetes.

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Frigerio, S., Junt, T., Lu, B. et al. β cells are responsible for CXCR3-mediated T-cell infiltration in insulitis. Nat Med 8, 1414–1420 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1038/nm1202-792

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