And in the case of EnGene, there's more: since the human body constantly replaces K-cells, PWDs would have to receive a new dose of insulin-producing K-cells roughly every five months. Here's the catch: EnGene currently sprays the K-cells directly into the gut lining using a modified endoscope (!), which I will NOT be subjecting myself to two or three times a year. According to the above-mentioned ScienceNews article, the company says it might also be possible for patients to ingest the K-cells in a drink or a pill. Now we're talking.

So why am I writing about EnGene now? First, it's exciting because it makes us hopeful for the future. I frequently hear from frustrated PWDs who are giving up hope that this disease one day will be cured. Some folks subscribe to the conspiracy theory that big pharma is thwarting the development of cures to protect their massive revenue streams from diabetes. I think there's plenty of evidence that pharma and biotech are working hard to improve treatment and to find a cure. And let's not forget this: whether EnGene or somebody else, whoever comes to market with a break-through therapy first (i.e. cure) will be rolling in dough.