Is the NOD mouse a good model for type 1 diabetes?

The NOD mouse is the best-known, although by no means the only, murine model of type 1 diabetes. In this review, we provide a historical perspective, particularly highlighting areas of progress in understanding aspects of aetiology and immune pathogenesis, and utility in helping to shape the immunotherapeutic landscape. We introduce points of interest where the NOD mouse, a much-studied model, has signposted discovery and knowledge. We discuss genetics, pancreatic islet beta cell stress, innate and adaptive immunity and autoantigens, and also focus on immunotherapeutic agents that have been tested in NOD mice and in humans. Some therapies, particularly those that are non-antigen-specific, have been more effectively signposted, while others, which include antigen-specific therapies, have not. There is an inevitable divergence between mice and humans that illustrates the need to use models appropriately. We suggest how to make use of this and other models effectively in order to maximise information and knowledge, and suggest not dismissing this important resource because of inappropriate comparisons or unrealistic expectations.