One of the emerging technologies in diabetes research is gene therapy. Gene therapy involves the treatment of islets to be transplanted. Using gene therapy strategies on islet cells can improve the efficacy of pancreatic islet transplants.

At the Diabetes Research Institute, scientists have made the safety and efficiency of this process their first priority. The DRI is using progressive technology to make islets stronger and to increase their mass. This is in response to the inherent problems associated with transplantation of islets. Learn more about gene therapy from a leading DRI scientist, Elizabeth Fenjves, Ph.D.

Dr. Fenjves' has led this research for the protection of islets in transplantation. Meet and greet with her LIVE on DIABETES talkfest on Thursday, September 14, 2006 - 9PM ET

I would like to thank Gina Capone, of DIABETES talkfest, for making this opportunity possible to those of us who are interested in learning more about gene therapy. Happy Birthday Gina!

Think the real world -- New York to California. That is exactly what Gina Capone did to capture the attention of a girl like myself, ransacking search engines for some refreshing diabetic websites. Gina, with her friend Jon, copiloted the launch of DIABETEStalkfest.

Focusing on the forgotten generation, young adults between the ages of 18-35, DIABETEStalkfest is an online community built by people with diabetes for people with diabetes.

Gina, a type 1 diabetic and native New Yorker, and Jon Schlaman, who has a son with type 1 diabetes and lives in California, met on a diabetes message board. Jon and Gina realized there was a shortage of good, fun, diabetes-related sites on the internet. Gina and Jon, formed a lasting friendship and business partnership, communicating only through message boards and IM's.

The inviting thing about DIABETEStalkfest is that you can find real friendships and support. Express yourself at their message board, or connect with other people in their online chat or even catch a live chat with professionals in the field. Join the unscripted fun on DIABETEStalkfest!