Diabecell Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes

There have been no studies conducted in the United States and to my knowledge the FDA has not approved Diabecell.

Based on a communication from Ann Bartlett, Allie Beatty has actually chatted with one of the scientists at Living Cells Technologies about Diabecell in terms of expense and the number of pigs required to harvest the islet cells. Per Allie, ten porcine pancreases are required for every transplant with the cost of each pig of about $10,000. To maintain a bottom line for the company, LCT must charge approximately $100,000 per procedure. I am not surprised about the expense, as it is crucial that these pigs be safe and bred in sterile conditions to avoid transmission of porcine viruses to humans.

What are the benefits and disadvantages of this new technology?

Benefits:

1. The potential ability to become insulin independent without hypoglycemia.
2. Encapsulation of the porcine islet cells and thus the lack of requirement of immunosuppressive drug therapy.
3. Due to the lack of immunosuppressive therapy, the potential risk of infection and cancer is markedly diminished.
4. No human cadaveric pancreases required.
5. The presence of an animal source of insulin that (in theory) can be based on supply and demand.
6. The demonstrated safety profile (so far).
7. Lack of injection of islet cells in the portal vein (risky) per the Edmonton Protocol. Islet cells injected into the peritoneum by laparoscopy.

Disadvantages:

1. Need for expensive pigs to harvest the islet cells.
2. Despite a period of insulin-independence, insulin requirements appear to return.
3. Probable frequent injections of encapsulated porcine islet cells to maintain glycemic control.
4. Continued need for monitoring due to safety concerns.
5. Need for FDA approval in the United States
6. Studies have only documented results in a few type 1 diabetes subjects.
7. Unknown future.

I will keep you posted.