Multicellular organism which is capable
of giving rise to indefinitely more similar type of cells and are
characteristically they take place of the damaged or lost cells and plays a
very pivotal role in renewal and repairing of the tissues.
Based on the cell type/tissue of origin, stem
cells are classified into Somatic Stem Cells (SSCs), and Embryonic Stem Cells
(ESCs). SSCs have limited differentiation capacity and may be multipotent or
unipotent. ESCs on the other hand are pluripotent and this characteristic can
also be generated by reprogramming of somatic cells, giving rise to induced
Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs).
Understanding
the root causes of diabetes has eluded researchers for many years
now. Diabetes patients lose the
function of insulin-producing beta cells within the pancreas.In recent
experiments, scientists have been able to coax embryonic stem cell to turn into
beta cells in the lab. In theory if the beta cell is transplanted successfully,
they will be able to replace malfunctioning ones in a diabetic patient. Beta cells (β cells) are a type of cell in the pancreas located in the islets of Langerhans. They make up
65-80% of the cells in the islets and their primary function is to store and
release insulin.
A
variety of sources are available from where the cells come for stem cells treatment for diabetes
.These include foetal tissue from:
Ø Embryos
Ø The placenta
Ø Umbilical cord
Ø Bone marrow
Ø Blood cells
Ø Teeth
Following are the
goals, that scientists are podering upon for successful stem cell treatment
for diabetes in India
·
Identify
strategies to prevent the onset of diabetes in those at risk
·
Halt
the progression of diabetes in newly-diagnosed patients
·
Enhance
the long-term success of cellular therapies and other methods aimed at curing
diabetes.
Immunological
issues related to diabetes are a major
concern for allogenic stem cell transplantations with both adult and embryonic
stem cells from nonautologous sources. Rejection can be inhibited by the use of
immuno suppressive drugs, which can have serious side effects.
Within
recent years, stem cell research has become a very important part of the
scientific understanding of type 1 diabetes. Research has demonstrated that
stem cells can be grown in the lab. In 2004, the scientists grew insulin
producing beta cells by introducing two genes ‘cdk’ and ‘cyclin d’ via a
virus.The researchers were able to deactivate the virus and also prevent stem
cells from growing further. The research could lead to a better availability of
beta cells for future research purposes.
To know
more about Stem
Cell therapy in India and Diabetes Treatment in India visit our
website : giostar.net