Summary

Impaired β-cell function and decreased β-cell mass due to apoptosis contribute to impaired insulin secretion in patients with type 2 diabetes. Interleukin-1 receptor antagonists (IL-1Ra) can block β-cell apoptosis, and patients with type 2 diabetes are known to have reduced levels of IL-1Ra expression. This article presents results from a recent study examining anakinra in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.