Effects of exercise in a islet-transplanted half-marathon runner: outcome on diabetes management, training and metabolic profile

Excerpt

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is an autoimmune disease that compromises β cell function [1]. Whenever possible, islet transplantation (IT) becomes necessary in order to restore the endocrine function and to achieve exogenous insulin independence [2, 3]. In people with T1D, after islet transplantation, the quality of life has been shown to be improved along with a better glycemic control [1‐3]. However, several conditions may lead to graft dysfunction and the need for re-introduction of exogenous insulin arises. Physical activity can be a therapeutic tool for increasing insulin sensitivity and improving glycemic control [4, 5]. Studies regarding the immunomodulatory effect of exercise are needed but it seems that exercise helps to alleviate the side effects of immunosuppression like the progression of insulin resistance, without worsening the autoimmune reaction [6, 7]. …