Thursday, January 24, 2008

Pancreatic stem cell breakthrough could offer treatment for Type 1 diabetes

Source: Agence France Presse
Posted: January 25, 2008 2:48 AM ET

Summary:

Agence France Presse reports researchers have isolated adult pancreatic stem cells in mice:

"An international team of scientists has isolated pancreatic stem cells in adult mice, a breakthrough that could lead to treatment for juvenile or Type 1 diabetes, researchers said in a study published Thursday. Scientists have for some time been searching for stem cells in the pancreas, which have the potential of restoring the organ's insulin-making capacity so crucial in maintaining adequate blood sugar levels in the body. The researchers hope to program the mice pancreatic stemcells to generate new insulin-producing beta cells."