Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a disorder involving insulin need because the beta cells of the pancreas have been destoyed by the immune system.  The pancreatic beta cells are needed for production of insulin.  The insulin in turn reduces the blood glucose level, keping the body in homeostasis.  Currently the treatment of most T1D is with periodic insulin injections.

Research has been on-going with possible stem cell treatment of the pancreas, renewing beta cell production for insulin.  New studies have found treatment with a new drug called Ig-GAD2 and stem cells can not only lead to  production of new beta cells, it repairs the blood vessels that support beta cell growth and insulin distribution.  Thus beta cell survival is greater and insulin production is renewed.  Research of cures for other autoimmune disorders may apply these findings as well.

As many people are affected by T1D and the need for insulin is a demand, new hope arises for a cure to such a chronic illness.  The possibilities of reversing a genetic illness is a glimmer of psychological and financial hope.  To find a way to reverse this illness is a way to give so many people a new way of life.  No more shots, daily finger-sticks, and timely planning of meals and snacks around the demand of glucose need.

1.)  Tortora, Derrickson.  Principles of Anatomy & Physiology, 13th ed.  New Jersey,     2012.

2.)  University of Missouri School of Medicine (2013, May 29).  Adult stem cells could hold key to cure type 1 diabetes. ScienceDaily.  Retrieved June 16, 2013, from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases