STEM
CELL RESEARCH CLOSING IN ON A DIABETES CURE
Researchers
at Massachusetts General Hospital have found a naturally occurring
hormone that causes adult stem cells to mature into pancreatic beta
cells.
Dr
Joel Habener, who led the study, found the hormone called glucagonlike
peptide-1 (GLP-1) which helps transform the stem cells into beta
cells. Dr. Habener stated, With the addition of GLP-1, we might be
able to stimulate those cells to become fully functional."
In
theory, a patient's own stem cells could be used to make beta cells,
which would then be transplanted back into the patient. Because the
cells come from the patient there should be no problems with the body
rejecting them. Beta cells work by producing insulin, thus eliminating
the need for daily injections; effectively curing the disease.
Dr
Moira Murphy, director of research for Diabetes UK, said the study was
"potentially exciting", but stated that more research was
needed. "There is a clear aim to find a way of generating
adequate supplies of insulin-producing cells. "However, this
research is in its infancy and there is a lot of developmental work to
be done before this could be used in practice."
