Pancreatic islet cells in animals can 'flip' their fate to produce insulin

[Northerner]

Alpha cells in the pancreas can be induced in living mice to quickly and efficiently become insulin-producing beta cells when the expression of just two genes is blocked, according to a study led by researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine.

Studies of human pancreases from diabetic cadaver donors suggest that the alpha cells' "career change" also occurs naturally in diabetic humans, but on a much smaller and slower scale. The research suggests that scientists may one day be able to take advantage of this natural flexibility in cell fate to coax alpha cells to convert to beta cells in humans to alleviate the symptoms of diabetes.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/02/170216130314.htm

 

[mikeyB]

It might be a bit quicker in a pancreas that's in a living body. Or it might not work at all. After all, in type1, our antibodies gobbled up our beta cells.

 

[HOBIE]

Keep on going Boffins ! 😎

 

[trophywench]

I honestly thought they'd told us that ages ago? But, I still haven't seen anywhere they've said they tried in in people.