Stem cell research may cure diabetes, but lacks funding

New Zealand-based stem cell scientists are closer than ever before in finding a “ground-breaking” cure for type 1 diabetes, but lack the funds to more forward with research.

According to lead researcher Dr Jim Faed, of University of Otago haematologist, preliminary laboratory work for the stem cell research on diabetes type 1 sufferers at the Spinal Cord Society Research Laboratory has been put on hold.

Experts in stem cell therapy Manhattan, have been watching closely as Dr Faed and scientist Dr Paul Turner, conduct trials on the gradual recovery of insulin in patients by suppressing the body’s auto-immune response.

Diabetes leads to a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream, which, untreated, can lead to dehydration and cause diabetics to go into a coma.

In the study, scientists have removed a small amount of the patient’s bone marrow and use it to grow stem cells in the laboratory to activate immune-suppressing properties. The activated cells are then infused back into the patient, converting aggressive cells to passive cells.

Researchers would also test two methods: treating diabetics’ white blood cells with the tissue in the laboratory; and injection into the person. The Chicago study used only the laboratory method.

Dr Turner said a Chinese-American study, published earlier this year, proved stem cells could be used to help turn off aggressive auto-immune responses.
“The results were astonishing. After 12 weeks all treated patients were making their own insulin in larger amounts.”

However, it was hoped public support would get the study back on track and see it start next year, as planned.

Just a small fraction of the $1.8 million needed to support the research has been raised, but project leaders are determined to stay positive. The trial has the potential to find a cure for, or improve the treatment of, diabetes type 1 and other autoimmune diseases.

“This is much bigger than I think many people have realised. We are standing on the brink of huge change in how a number of diseases are going to be treated. I think, in the next few years, we’re going to see these diseases tackled effectively.”

Dr. Faed has teamed up with the Waikato Chamber of Commerce and Hamilton Central Business Association to ask for donations to further fund the research.Their research will go further than previous studies, by using activated cells with a second trial using stem cells to “condition” white blood cells before infusing them back into the body.

“With these developments a cure for type 1 diabetes and other immune-related disorders is within our grasp,” Dr Turner said.