About this Research Topic
Diabetes etiology is a multifaceted field, primarily categorized into Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). T1D is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of β-cells, leading to a loss of insulin production, while T2D involves an inadequate insulin response due to increased insulin resistance. The prevalence of T1D is notably high among children, especially in European populations, whereas T2D is becoming a significant global public health concern among adolescents, particularly in high-risk ethnic groups and those with obesity. The rising incidence of both T1D and T2D in youth is attributed to overlapping factors, such as the obesity epidemic, which is further influenced by genetic predispositions and environmental factors like western diets and low physical activity. Recent studies have highlighted the role of genetics in T1D pathogenesis, alongside specific environmental factors such as gut microbiota and immune system exposures. However, the interaction with obesity challenges conventional perceptions of metabolic diseases. Insulin replacement therapy in youth with T1D and obesity often results in a cycle of insulin resistance and weight gain, leading to a dual burden and poorer outcomes. This underscores the need to explore how environmental and biopsychosocial factors impact youth with T1D and influence obesity, emphasizing therapeutic interventions like physical activity, nutrition, and pharmacotherapy to manage this dual burden effectively.
This Research Topic aims to elucidate the complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including obesity, in the development, prevention, and treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes in the pediatric population. Our objective is to compile a collection of high-quality, peer-reviewed articles from established experts in diabetology and metabolism, providing insights into the current state of the field and potential future directions. We are particularly interested in papers that bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications, demonstrating how experimental knowledge can support medical innovation and advances in clinical practice.
To gather further insights into the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in pediatric diabetes, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Genetic markers of susceptibility in pediatric metabolic disorders.
- The impact of environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and pollution on pediatric diabetes (type 1 and 2) and obesity – from prevention to treatment.
- Innovations in the treatment and management of childhood obesity and its complications.
- The role of childhood obesity pharmacotherapies in preventing the development of type 2 diabetes.
- The role of maternal health in fetal development and pediatric endocrine disorders.
- Advances in understanding and managing other disorders in children affected by diabetes and obesity.
This Research Topic aims to elucidate the complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including obesity, in the development, prevention, and treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes in the pediatric population. Our objective is to compile a collection of high-quality, peer-reviewed articles from established experts in diabetology and metabolism, providing insights into the current state of the field and potential future directions. We are particularly interested in papers that bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications, demonstrating how experimental knowledge can support medical innovation and advances in clinical practice.
To gather further insights into the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in pediatric diabetes, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Genetic markers of susceptibility in pediatric metabolic disorders.
- The impact of environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and pollution on pediatric diabetes (type 1 and 2) and obesity – from prevention to treatment.
- Innovations in the treatment and management of childhood obesity and its complications.
- The role of childhood obesity pharmacotherapies in preventing the development of type 2 diabetes.
- The role of maternal health in fetal development and pediatric endocrine disorders.
- Advances in understanding and managing other disorders in children affected by diabetes and obesity.
Keywords: Diabetes, metabolic syndrome, genetic predisposition, environmental factors, development, pediatrics, pediatric diabetes
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
