We are focusing on novel strategies using optimized variants of critical autoantigens for Foxp3+Treg induction since Tregs bear the promise of specifically targeting the harmful effects of peripheral autoreactive T cells to control autoimmunity such as that observed in T1D while preserving the ability of the immune system to fight off infections15, 16, 17, 18. Here, FOXP3 is linked to type 1 diabetes mellitus.