New Type 1 Diabetes Treatment Passes First Test

A clinical study on a T1D treatment developed by Dr. Eli Lewis, a BGU researcher, in collaboration with the University of Colorado Health Science Center, had an "exceptional outcome" after an eight week treatment of the anti-inflammatory serum protein, Alpha1-Antitrypsin (AAT). "Following treatment of eight to 12 weeks with AAT, in several patients, it allowed proper glucose levels to be controlled without the need for any insulin injections for more than two years." In addition, children and adolescents showed no adverse effects. The researchers are now recruiting for three more extension trials. The treatment course was comprised of a weekly infusion-drip of AAT, then a year-long follow-up with 12 patients. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Feb, 2014