Consortium for Identification of Environmental Triggers*

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Understanding of the interactions of genes, immune responses, and environmental factors that induce pancreatic beta-cell autoimmunity and allow its progression to type 1 diabetes (T1D) requires a large cohort that is prospectively monitored. We hypothesize that the autoimmune cascade and the resultant molecular and cellular changes that culminate in insulin deficiency, are initiated/triggered by environmental factors in the very early years of life. The identification of these triggers has been hampered by the lack of large suitable cohorts. Several prospective studies including DAISY, DIPP and our own PANDA have aimed at establishing cohorts for the identification of environmental triggers and elucidation of the immunopathogenesis. The creation of a consortium will allow for a coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach, the collection of information and samples in a standardized manner, greater statistical power than can be achieved in smaller independent investigations, and the creation of a central repository of data and biologic samples for subsequent hypothesis-based research. This proposed MCG/UF clinical center as part of the consortium has the following specific aims: 1) To recruit 20,000 newborns from the general population and 2,000 newborns/infants (