Opening Lecture
From base change to better care:
the clinical impact
of molecular genetics

Genetics is one approach that can define the underlying pathophysiology and also heterogeneity in patients with diabetes. 2007 has been a great year for the genetics of diabetes with at least 6 genomewide scans reported resulting in 3 novel Type 1 and 6 novel Type 2 genes.

Report
7th report on the EASD Standardisation Subcommittee (ESSC)

1. Standardisation of HbA1c measurement:
A consensus statement on the worldwide standardisation of the HbA1c measurement has been published (attachment). Ele Ferrannini and Robert Heine were EASD representatives on the consensus statement.

EASD/JDRF Symposium
Beta cell imaging and regeneration - between the hype and the hope
Beta cell regeneration:
How good is good enough?

Both major forms of diabetes arise through an absolute (type 1) or a relative (type 2) decrease in beta cell mass. Current therapy for diabetes has improved greatly in recent years, with insulin replacement therapy combined with glucose monitoring and/or oral hypoglycaemic agents to enhance beta cell function and improve insulin sensitivity allowing for closer glucose control than was previously possible.

European clinical research
Where are we, where should we go?

The epidemic of diabetes – especially type 2 diabetes - remains largely unchecked. Although clinical research is addressing some of the issues, many large-scale trials are failing to improve clinical decisions or stem the tide of complications.

EASD/ADA Symposium
Monitoring of glycaemia in people with diabetes: will mean blood glucose substitute HbA1c?

Which factors affect the relationship between HbA1c and mean blood glucose?

This lecture will include a short introduction of HbA1c, a historic look back to the late 1960s, where this unusual component of human hemoglobin was noted to be increased in patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM), and how it later was recognised as a potential clinical and research tool.