Type 1 diabetes (T1D), also called insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells. As a result, patients produce inadequate amounts of insulin. In Vivo Pharmacology Services at JAX uses NOD/ShiLtJ (001976) mice as a platform for contract preclinical efficacy studies to evaluate type I diabetes-related therapeutics.

Diabetes in NOD/ShiLtJ mice is characterized by insulitis, a leukocytic infiltration of the pancreatic islets. Marked decreases in pancreatic insulin content occur in females beginning at about 12-14 weeks of age and several weeks later in males.  Consequently, plasma glucose levels increase to greater than 250 mg/dl.

Standard type 1 diabetes study design

• 8-week old female NOD/ShiLtJ (001976) mice.
• Mice are acclimated for 14 days prior to study initiation.
• Clinical observations and body weights are recorded weekly.
• Fed (non-fasting) blood glucose levels are measured 2X weekly beginning at 12 weeks of age. (Approximately 10ul of blood is collected by tail nick, and glucose levels are measured using a glucometer.)
• Mice having two consecutive fed-blood glucose levels > 200mg-300mg/dl are randomized by body weight and glucose levels into three groups and dosed.
• Mice are monitored up to 12 weeks post-dosing initiation.

A full report containing body weight and blood glucose measurements is delivered at study conclusion.