Every time a possible "cure" appears, I feel a mixture of illusion and prudence.The research that is discussed now focuses on something very new: beta cells modified with CRISPR so that the immune system does not attack them and that can produce insulin without immunosuppressants.
The interesting thing is that these transplanted cells managed to produce insulin for six months without the body rejected.It is the first time that it is demonstrated that the "genetic camouflage" works in humans.The problem is that about 80 million cells were used and, so that a patient could leave insulin, at least a billion would need.Even so, it is a very relevant step.
The great limitation is the shortage of dead donor cells.That is why researchers work to generate them from stem cells and apply the same genetic edition.If this works, two obstacles would be resolved at the same time: the lack of material and immune rejection.
Other pathways are also being explored, such as insulin -producing stem cells (although today they require immunosuppression) or the encapsulated cells in semipermeable membranes, but both options still have important limitations.The genetic edition seems, for now, the most promising strategy.
It is hopeful because eliminating the need for immunosuppressants would mean a radical change, since today these treatments carry risks of infections, renal damage and even cancer.And if stem cells can occur on a large scale, the door would open to accessible therapies for many.
At the same time, you have to keep your feet on the floor.What has been tested is an initial experiment in an person, and moving from there to a real treatment implies years of trials, manufacturing, regulations and security tests.Today this does not change anything in our routine of controls, insulin, diet and exercise.
The question we all ask ourselves is:Will this allow me to leave insulin one day?
Yes, but not yet.Is it more real than other ads?
Yes, because something fundamental has been demonstrated: that the immune system can be "deceived."But there is still a long way.
For those who live with diabetes, this news allows us to dream while still being realistic.And for family and friends, it is important to understand that the illusion is accompanied by patience: it is not an immediate cure, but it would be a serious route towards it.
In our forum we talk a lot about this "meanwhile": how to take care of ourselves, what habits work and how to support each other.If this news generates questions or emotions, share them, because together we get the wait better.And if you want to support directly, the book "Living with diabetes: the power of the online community" is a great gift for you or your loved ones.It helps to understand what it means to live with this condition and to value the power of the community.
In summary: we have not yet arrived, but this research shows that we are one step closer to a possible cure.Meanwhile, what we do is the strength of continuing to take care and not being alone on the road.
Greetings,
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