Over the decades, JDRF has funded myriad studies into the causes and progression of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The results have been incredible, helping to unlock the science that is moving us closer to prevention and a cure.

We know that T1D doesn’t develop the same way in everyone. We also now understand that T1D progresses through a series of defined stages. But we can find out even more from work we’ve already completed, by combining the data and looking at them as a whole.

Years of research have produced mountains of data. Could there be clues somewhere in this information that could stop or delay the onset of T1D? We certainly hope so, but the answer requires immense computing power to uncover. That’s why JDRF has partnered with IBM. We’ll apply machine-learning algorithms to more closely examine at least three data sets that have been collected through JDRF-funded projects.

After cleaning and combining the data, scientists will work to identify various subsets of T1D. In every case of T1D, an autoimmune response has killed insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. But there are differences—or subsets—in how the disease progresses. Finally, this information will be used to create models that show how each of these subsets progresses from onset to full-blown T1D.

The end goal is to develop a better understanding of risk factors and causes of T1D so we can eventually find a way to prevent the disease entirely. We also hope that the knowledge we gain from this collaboration could help lead to a cure for those already living with T1D.

By teaming up with IBM, we can piece together the puzzle of T1D.