Beta-cell function and diabetic control in insulin dependent diabetes melletus

Beta-cell function, as evaluated from plasma C-peptide measurements, is found in all insulin dependent diabetic patients the first months of disease and in about 15% of patients with more than 15 years of treatment. The beta-cells are capable of modulating their secretory activity in response to changes in blood glucose. Even a minimal residual insulin secretion is of metabolic significance. Key words: insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, beta-cell function, C-peptide metabolic control.