New research is revealing that cells passed from mother to child during pregnancy could be used to treat diabetes. Scientists found these cells can develop into functioning islet beta cells which produce insulin in the pancreas.

Scientists studied 172 individuals and took pancreatic tissue from four deceased males. They found small numbers of female islet beta cells able to produce insulin. There was no evidence the mother's cells were causing damage or becoming the target of an immune response. However, the team found more maternal DNA in the blood of children and young adults with type 1 diabetes than in healthy individuals. Researchers believe the maternal cells may be helping to regenerate tissue in the pancreas.

I heard about this study last year. It sounded quite promising and led me to wonder if I had a child - could the stem cells from the umbilical cord become healthy beta cells for me? Sure. However, the big question still remains - how can I stop the killer Ts from spanking my islets in the first place?

Upon losing his wife to type I diabetic complications, Mr. Iacocca and his family began a journey to support innovative diabetes research nationwide. Recognizing that medical research is costly, Mr. Iacocca devoted his efforts to providing the funding necessary to keep the most promising diabetes-research projects moving forward. Twenty-two years and over $23 million later, The Iacocca Foundation has supported amazing scientists and helped advance exciting research.

Without evoking the same deer in headlights reaction I flaunted, I'll provide a brief description of a few projects (due, in part, to the fact I am too simple to understand them all in detail). I welcome you to continue reading the full details of all the research projects from the Iacocca Foundation website. Without further adieu, here are a few details on some projects underway:

The Nathan/Faustman Project is preparing for a Human Clinical Trial to stop the autoimmune attack in type 1 diabetes.

Dr. Jerry Nadler is researching the effects of Lisofylline (LSF), a novel small molecule immunomodulator that has been shown to be effective in halting autoimmune damage to pancreatic insulin producing beta cells.

Dr. Chan's project proposes the use of gene therapy to produce new islet cells.

Without question, the Iacocca Foundation has made it possible for these innovative, promising, and undeniably remarkable projects to see their way to fully-funded fruition. Mr. Iacocca, if you have not heard it before, I will say it now: Thank You. On behalf of the diabetic community, I would like to express our appreciation for your tremendous efforts and the priceless gift of hope.