Above picture. Insulin injections.

Image from the site: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/3584090.stm

Stem Cells may be able to remove the need for insulin replacement.



A research team at the University of Toronto has discovered immature cells in the pancreas of adult mice that are able to be used to change into insulin-producing cells.



Researchers are starting to investigate on whether or not humans have these same percursor cells. If these cells are present in humans, then they can possibly be used to cure type 1 diabetes.

The Toronto University Scientists are trying to see if their laboratory discovery will be able to lead to the production of new beta cells to cure type 1 diabetes.

Lead researcher, Dr.Simon Smukler, aims to prove that the cells that his team have found are true stem cells, as they are immature cells that can renew themselves and are able to become different types of cells.

Professor, Anne Cooke from the Stem Cell Institute at the University of Cambridge believes this discovery is the first step in finding a cure for insulin-deficiency. She believes that the real test will be finding out whether or not these cells can restore normal glucose levels in people with diabetes.

To view the original site about recent research involved with stem cells click here. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/3584090.stm