It's a g'day for children prone to developing diabetes in New Zealand. A revolutionary treatment to prevent the development of type 1 diabetes was slated to begin in 10 years. The 10 year waiting period was due to a ban created to prevent animal-to-human diseases. Thankfully, in light of this proposed vaccine-it has been lifted and trials may soon be underway.
Living Cell Technologies was granted the license to manufacture its pig cell products for humans. The license is the first in a three-step process towards obtaining approval for human clinical trials in New Zealand, beginning as early as next year. The groundbreaking vaccine involves an injection of cells from a newborn pig. The cells are coated with a gel to protect them from the human immune system. The cells then secrete protective proteins responsible for the repair and protection of cells.
Australia is known for breathtaking landscapes, playful kangaroos and the narcoleptic koala. With the expected results of this discovery, it will someday soon be a land free of type 1 diabetes. That's another natural beauty to add to the list.
1. Oh, finally! They did it. I'm so glad for the Australians.
Posted at 2:38AM on Dec 22nd 2006 by Jamie