Low dose of immunosuppressant antithymocyte globulin (ATG) preserved beta cell function as measured by stimulated C-peptide
NEW YORK, Sept. 19, 2025 — Results of the Breakthrough T1D-supported phase 2 MELD-ATG clinical trial, presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) annual meeting, demonstrate that an existing drug, antithymocyte globulin (ATG), safely preserved beta cell function and delayed the progression of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children and young adults ages 5-25 with new-onset T1D. The results were also published today in The Lancet.
ATG is an immunosuppressant that has been used in transplantation for decades. Previous studies in new-onset T1D found that it has disease-modifying effects. This study, using an adaptive trial design, successfully tested a range of low doses of ATG and identified a minimum effective low dose that could preserve beta cell function as measured by C-peptide.
“Disease-modifying therapies that can preserve beta cell function and change the course of type 1 diabetes for individuals newly diagnosed are urgently needed and a crucial step toward cures for the disease,” said Esther Latres, Ph.D., vice president of research at Breakthrough T1D. “The results of the MELD-ATG trial are promising, demonstrating the importance of innovative trial design, collaboration within the research community, and ongoing research into existing drugs that can have benefits for type 1 diabetes. Breakthrough T1D is proud to have been a part of advancing this research, and we look forward to further study in this area.”
The Meld-ATG study was part of INNODIA, a global partnership of dozens of academic institutions and other organizations with a common goal to end T1D. It was conducted at trial centers across multiple countries within the INNODIA network and included guidance from INNODIA’s patient advisory committee.
About Breakthrough T1D, Formerly JDRF
As the leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D helps make everyday life with type 1 diabetes better while driving toward cures. We do this by investing in the most promising research, advocating for progress by working with government to address issues that impact the T1D community, and helping educate and empower individuals facing this condition.
About Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
T1D is an autoimmune condition that causes the pancreas to make very little insulin or none at all. This leads to dependence on insulin therapy and the risk of short and long-term complications, which can include highs and lows in blood sugar; damage to the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and heart; and even death. Globally, it impacts nearly 9 million people. Many believe T1D is only diagnosed in childhood and adolescence, but diagnosis in adulthood is common and accounts for nearly 50% of all T1D diagnoses. The onset of T1D has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. While its causes are not yet entirely understood, scientists believe that both genetic factors and environmental triggers are involved. There is currently no cure for T1D.
