Autoimmune destruction targets which cells in Type 1 diabetes?

• A. Alpha cells
• B. Beta cells
• C. Acinar cells
• D. Ductal cells

Answer: (B)

Type 1 diabetes arises from autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreatic islets. When the immune system attacks these cells, insulin production falls, leading to hyperglycemia and dependence on exogenous insulin. This autoimmune process often involves insulitis with T-cell–mediated damage to beta cells, sometimes accompanied by autoantibodies against islet antigens. The other pancreatic cell types have different roles: alpha cells secrete glucagon and are not the primary target in this disease; acinar cells and ductal cells make up the exocrine pancreas and are not responsible for insulin regulation. Thus, the cells targeted by autoimmunity in this condition are the beta cells.