Compositions and methods for determining a subjects risk of developing type 1 diabetes (T1D) and diabetic complications are provided. One embodiment provides a method involving measuring the levels of interleukin-1-receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) in a sample from the subject. In other embodiments, the method involves measuring the levels of MIP-1β, IL-8, MCP-1, MPO, SAA, IGFBP2, Adiponectin, or combinations thereof. Another embodiment provides preventing islet autoimmunity and T1D using agonist of IL-1ra, MIP-1β, IL-8, MCP-1, MPO, or a combination thereof. Another embodiment provides preventing islet autoimmunity, T1D and diabetic complications using antagonist of SAA, IGFBP2, Adiponectin, or a combination thereof.
