Breakthrough: Canadian Team CURES Diabetes in Mice
From The National Post:
In a discovery that has stunned even those behind it, scientists at a Toronto hospital say they have proof the body’s nervous system helps trigger diabetes, opening the door to a potential near-cure of the disease that affects millions of Canadians.
Diabetic mice became healthy virtually overnight after researchers injected a substance to counteract the effect of malfunctioning pain neurons in the pancreas.
“I couldn’t believe it,” said Dr. Michael Salter, a pain expert at the Hospital for Sick Children and one of the scientists. “Mice with diabetes suddenly didn’t have diabetes any more.”
The researchers caution they have yet to confirm their findings in people, but say they expect results from human studies within a year or so. Any treatment that may emerge to help at least some patients would likely be years away from hitting the market.
I don’t know a lot about diabetes, but I do know that it’s very common and has tons of horrible side effects; everything from sight loss to poor circulation requiring amputation. This is an amazing discovery.
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2 opinions for Breakthrough: Canadian Team CURES Diabetes in Mice
Malgwyn
Dec 17, 2006 at 2:21 am
Every couple of years, we see pretty much the same headline, complete with a mouse study. Optimism may result in increased funding.
Wade
Dec 17, 2006 at 9:10 am
I guess I missed the announcement last time around. Got any linkage to those previous headlines? (Not doubting, just interested, and well, I’m always kind of doubting. It’s a requirement for surfing the net and keeping your sanity.)
Either way, I hope you’re right about the renewed interest and influx of funding. I’ve seen two people close to me go through foot and then lower leg amputations due to diabetes and it made me very sad.
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