good evidence that the insulin-producing cells of the body are damaged and destroyed by inflammation

There is good evidence that the insulin-producing cells of the body are damaged and destroyed by inflammation in Type 2 diabetes. That puts it in a similar category with other inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout. One new agent being investigated is called interleukin-2 (IL-2) beta receptor antagonist. Studies have shown the receptor plays a significant role in the death of the insulin producing cells. If this killer agent could be blocked then insulin production would be preserved and diabetes would be slowed or maybe even stopped.