When I think of stem cell research, Christopher Reeves comes to mind first. However, the research had been ongoing and in the news for quite some time. I hadn't paid much attention until Reeves crusade for stem cell research began, which is also the same time I learned that the same research that might one day allow Reeves to walk, could also cure me.
I'm not entirely sure I agree with it. I suppose it puts a moral issue on the table among other things. If it were just me suffering from diabetes, I might be against it but I know I'm not alone. There are millions of people with diabetes that are far worse than I am. If it were one of my sons suffering from diabetes, I might be beating a path to Congress's door.
The road to a cure doesn't end with stem cell research. Whole-pancreas transplants are quite successfully although the eligibility is limited to those undergoing kidney transplants. Since the Edmonton Protocol, islet transplantation finally surpassed the 10% success rate. Immunosuppressive drugs are required for the patient's entire life but it's a start and by far better than insulin shots. As of today, eligibility is also strict and limited to adults.
There is also ongoing research on regeneration of beta cells. Personally, I would bet on this. Evidence is out there already that proves animals and humans have the ability to do this naturally. If scientists can find a way to encourage the body to regenerate its own islet cells, the research could surpass all other avenues to a cure.
Regeneration would alleviate the need for donor cells required for islet transplantation and immunosuppressive drugs. The JDRF organized and hosted a workshop on beta cell regeneration in March 2004. More information can be found at www.jdrf.org/files/research/regenerationworkshop032404.pdf.
After twenty-one years, I will admit I became a bit of a slacker on the research front. I learned to live with diabetes and went on with life. Although I take my insulin, do the blood tests and visit my endocrinologist on a regular basis, I did not take much interest in what went on outside my own door. I figured if a cure was found, every news station, paper and magazine would alert me to the fact. Writing for Suite101 has brought back the interest I had lost over the years.
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