Pancreas in a metal tube

Scientists at the University of Akron (Ohio), working under the guidance of Dr. Joseph P. Kennedy, have developed a prototype of a "biosynthetic" pancreas, which is a metal tube filled with insulin-producing cells and coated with a special coating, no larger than a cigarette. Such a device can not only relieve diabetic patients from the need for regular insulin injections, but also prevent the development of complications of this disease such as vision loss, kidney failure, trophic ulcers, etc.

Scientists have been working on the creation of an artificial pancreas for more than a year. Most of the approaches being developed are to encapsulate insulin-synthesizing beta cells of the pancreas and transplant them to patients with diabetes.

However, until now, encapsulation of a large number of cells has remained a rather difficult task, since the materials used for this purpose had poor biocompatibility or other disadvantages that make it difficult to use them in the conditions of the body.

The success of the new device is due to the permeable polymer membrane covering it, which not only ensures the efficient exchange of insulin and glucose between cells and blood, but also improves the supply of oxygen to cells, which is necessary for their optimal functioning and normal life expectancy.

Preclinical trials of the new biosynthetic pancreas on animals have been successful and the authors hope for clinical trials to be conducted soon.

Portal "Eternal youth" www.vechnayamolodost.ru based on Chemical & Engineering News

07.05.2008