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Reversing Diabetes
Dateline: 03/09/00
In an amazing study, researchers at the University of Florida have reversed diabetes in mice through a simple injection of stem cells (immature cells) right below the skin. After about 10 days, the mice were able to regulate the amount of glucose in the bloodstream.
In the study, the researchers harvested cells from the pancreas that were in the early stages of development. The cells were cultured in the laboratory until they developed into islets of Langerhans. The cells were then collected into a syringe and injected below the skin of mice. After several days, the cells began to function like normal islets of Langerhans cells.
The method used to produce the cells is akin to techniques used for skin grafts and other similar procedures. However unlike these similar techniques, the stem cells did become functional before being injected into the mice.
The study lasted for approximately three months and the researchers found that the immune systems of the mice did not attack the stem cells. The researchers believe that by growing the cells in culture, they were able to circumvent the normal immune attack response. It is unclear how long it will last, but the current results are very encouraging.
This study raises the possibility that a simple, inexpensive procedure might one day lead to a cure for the many people who suffer from Type I diabetes. Persons with diabetes have lost the ability to regulate the amount of glucose in the body.
Researchers are currently attempting to replicate the procedure with human cells and it is likely that injection into primates will begin soon. With the testing in primates, the researchers will have a better idea of some of the potential problems with humans.
It is estimated that almost three-quarters of a million people suffer from Type I diabetes in the United States alone. Approximately 5 to 10 percent of all diabetes cases in the United States are Type I. It can be a devastating disease leading to fatal complications such as heart attack, stroke and even blindness.
What do you think? Will this study have potential applications in humans? Do you think this technique might one day offer an inexpensive cure for diabetes? Come on over to the Biology Forum and share your thoughts, opinions and feelings. 'Til next time...
For additional information see:
Injected Stem Cells Reverse Diabetes In Mice
UniSci report about the study.
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