Which type of diabetes is characterized by an autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells?

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks these cells, leading to little or no insulin production. This is a critical aspect of Type 1 diabetes, distinguishing it from other types of diabetes.

In contrast, Type 2 diabetes often involves insulin resistance rather than an autoimmune process, with the body still able to produce some insulin, though not enough to maintain normal glucose levels. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and is typically related to hormonal changes that cause insulin resistance, rather than an autoimmune destructive process. Therefore, Type 1 diabetes mellitus is the only type defined by the specific destruction of insulin-producing cells due to an autoimmune response.