Articles tagged with Pancreas
A team of researchers has identified a common regulatory grammar in islet cells that affects the activity of Regulatory Factor X, a master regulator involved in gene expression. Many Type 2 diabetes-linked DNA changes disrupt this grammar, leading to a range of health problems.
Researchers have successfully reprogrammed liver cells to behave like precursor cells that give rise to the pancreas, paving the way for potential cell therapies for type I diabetes. By altering a single gene, the team induced an identity crisis in liver cells, which then developed into cells with pancreatic properties.
The Helmholtz Zentrum München will receive 1.5 million euros to develop stem cell culture models on a chip for investigating pancreatic diseases and testing therapy options. The goal is to explore biology, identify points of attack, and potentially develop beta cell replacement therapy.
Clinical trials are now enrolling at the University of Virginia Health System to test an artificial pancreas that automatically regulates blood-sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes. The trials will examine safety, effectiveness, and cost as well as physical and emotional health.
Four NIH-funded research projects aim to test and refine fully automated artificial pancreas systems, replacing traditional methods for managing type 1 diabetes. The studies will evaluate safety, efficacy, user-friendliness, and cost, with the goal of bringing these life-changing devices to those who need them.
A new study found that low thyroid hormone levels before birth impair the growth and development of the fetal pancreas, affecting insulin-secreting cells. This could lead to increased risk of pancreatic disorders and type 2 diabetes in later life.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a novel mechanism by which the stress hormone FGF21 protects the pancreas from damage caused by digestive enzymes. This discovery may lead to new treatments for pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.
The bionic pancreas system successfully reduced average blood glucose levels and decreased the risk of hypoglycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes living at home. The system's automated monitoring and dose delivery significantly improved blood sugar control, reducing the risk of severe hypoglycemia and nocturnal episodes.
Research reveals a significant link between elevated blood fats and acute pancreatitis, with even mild increases posing a ninefold greater risk. The study's findings highlight the need for further research into the role of common fats in disease development.
A study by UMass Amherst researcher Alicia Timme-Laragy investigates the link between early life pollutant exposure and future diabetes risk. The researchers will expose zebrafish embryos to toxic chemicals, aiming to understand how environmental contaminants affect pancreas development.
The artificial pancreas, a device monitoring blood glucose levels and automatically adjusting insulin doses, is nearing availability. Clinical trials have shown effective glucose control with reduced risk of hypoglycaemia, but challenges remain in addressing speed of action and cybersecurity concerns.
A commentary published in Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics suggests that insulin pump therapy can lead to better blood glucose control and may be beneficial for all patients with type 1 diabetes. The author highlights the importance of pump technology, including sensor-controlled feedback and artificial pancreas systems.
A study published in Cell Metabolism found that a genetic variant of the melatonin receptor gene, MTNR1B, may predispose individuals to type 2 diabetes by increasing sensitivity to insulin-inhibiting effects of melatonin. This increased sensitivity can lead to lower insulin secretion and higher blood sugar levels.
A new study found that leptin inhibits the development of neuronal connections between the brain and pancreas during embryonic development. This breakdown in communication can lead to impaired glucose regulation and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in children, particularly those born to obese mothers.
Researchers found a compound that prevents scarring in the lungs and liver also shows promise in preventing pancreatic fibrosis. The study used an animal model to demonstrate the effectiveness of the integrin inhibitor in halting fibrosis and potentially preserving pancreatic function.
A study by Dr. Fraser Scott and his team discovered a bacteria-killing protein called cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) that helps the pancreas regenerate and produce insulin. The research could lead to novel treatments for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that diseased exocrine tissue can cause deficiencies in endocrine cells, leading to diabetes. The discovery suggests a new target for stem cell-based treatments.
Researchers identified hybrid insulin peptides (HIPs) that trigger autoimmune response in T1D patients, prompting immune system to attack insulin-producing cells. These findings may help explain the mystery of why people with T1D are affected by incorrect insulin peptide bonding.
The article discusses the development and future promise of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology, which combines CGM with an insulin pump and sophisticated algorithms for automating insulin control. Key challenges facing successful commercialization include cost, reimbursement issues, and lack of FDA approval for insulin dosing.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified a chemical compound that blocks KMO, fueling inflammation linked to acute pancreatitis. The approach calms inflammation in the condition and protects against organ failure, offering hope for patients with life-threatening complications.
A device developed by UVA researchers aims to automate blood-sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes through two clinical trials, which could lead to FDA approval if successful. The artificial pancreas will be tested at nine locations worldwide, including Europe.
Researchers are conducting one of the largest-ever long-term clinical trials of an artificial pancreas system to regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with type 1 diabetes. The trial aims to test the safety and efficacy of the system, which uses advanced algorithms and sensors to mimic a healthy person's glucose regulating function.
Researchers at MUSC are exploring a new treatment for chronic pancreatitis using Alpha 1 anti-trypsin (AAT), which has shown promise in preventing diabetes and improving liver implantation. The study aims to examine the effects of AAT on human islets in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Regenerative medicine researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have found that decellularized human pancreata can be used as a platform for building a new bio-artificial pancreas. The study successfully re-populated the organ structures with patient cells and showed promising results in animal trials.
Researchers at Newcastle University found that Type 2 diabetes is caused by excess fat in the pancreas, which can be removed through weight loss. Losing just one gram of pancreatic fat can reverse the condition and restore normal insulin function, regardless of body weight or method of weight loss.
A pilot study has demonstrated that a mechanical artificial pancreas can better maintain normal blood glucose levels than multiple daily insulin injections in patients with pancreatitis. The treatment combines an AI-powered pump with islet cell transplantation, enabling the transplanted cells to survive longer and produce more insulin.
A new Northwestern Medicine study has identified thousands of genetic pathways that regulate insulin production and blood sugar control in the pancreas, which could lead to new therapies for children and adults with diabetes. The researchers created a detailed map of genes controlled by the circadian clock's transcription factors.
A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that neurogenin 3-expressing cells in the exocrine pancreas have the capacity to become insulin-producing beta cells. This discovery may lead to novel drug therapies to replenish cells destroyed or damaged by diabetes.
Researchers have created an implantable device that continuously measures blood sugar levels and automatically releases insulin as needed, eliminating the need for constant monitoring and daily injections. The artificial pancreas maintained blood glucose within target range nearly 80% of the time in computer simulations.
A Montréal research team found that the dual-hormone artificial pancreas provides the most benefits by reducing time spent in nocturnal hypoglycaemia. The study also showed that no participant using the system experienced a nocturnal hypoglycaemia event requiring treatment.
Recent studies on artificial pancreas systems have identified security vulnerabilities, including software integrity and malware threats. The authors propose a more formal approach to reporting the technical characteristics of these complex systems to ensure their safety.
Five teenagers with Type 1 diabetes will participate in a four-day study to test an 'artificial pancreas,' which automatically monitors and adjusts insulin delivery. The device has the potential to transform diabetes treatment by providing continuous glucose control, reducing anxiety for patients and parents.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a profile to identify patients most at risk of developing pancreatic cancer. The study analyzed data from 1,126 patients and found that factors such as history of smoking, obesity, jaundice, and cyst size on imaging scans are associated with high risk.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have created a video of thousands of progenitor cells in the pancreas making decisions, revealing that stem cells behave like individuals with social interactions influencing their choices. This study could lead to improved control over insulin-producing endocrine cells for diabetes treatment.
Researchers have developed a novel imaging technique using ferumoxytol and MRI to visualize pancreatic inflammation in patients with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes. The study found clear evidence of ongoing inflammation in the pancreas, which could help predict disease progression and identify potential therapeutic targets.
A 12-year study found that genetic variants, combined with lifestyle factors like smoking and drinking, can lead to chronic pancreatitis. Researchers identified a specific gene variant that may fail to protect pancreatic cells from injury, increasing the risk of inflammation and scarring.
A new study published in the American Journal of Pathology suggests that HLA class I hyperexpression on pancreatic islet cells may not be a crucial step in developing type 1 diabetes. The study found discrepancies between results from immunohistochemistry and quantitative molecular techniques.
A new procedure combining surgery to remove part of the pancreas and islet cell transplantation appears safe and effective for alleviating pain from severe chronic pancreatitis. Eight out of nine patients who underwent this procedure were able to discontinue insulin use, with two requiring no insulin at all.
A clinical trial confirms the external artificial pancreas system improves glucose control and reduces the risk of hypoglycemia compared to conventional diabetes treatment. The dual-hormone artificial pancreas provides additional reduction in hypoglycemia, offering a promising treatment option for type 1 diabetes patients.
Acute pancreatitis is a severe condition where the pancreas digests itself, leading to abdominal pain, vomiting, and systemic inflammation. Recent research suggests that insulin may prevent toxic effects of alcohol and fatty acid metabolites on pancreatic acinar cells.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Institute have discovered a promising technique to restore insulin production in people with Type 1 diabetes. A peptide called caerulein was found to convert existing alpha cells into insulin-producing beta cells, potentially freeing patients from daily insulin doses.
A pilot study will evaluate advanced artificial pancreas technology for individuals with type 1 diabetes under real-world conditions. The study aims to test the safety and effectiveness of an unsupervised artificial pancreas system that automatically controls insulin delivery.
Researchers found that the bionic pancreas reduced interventions for low blood glucose by 37% and improved glucose levels, particularly at night. The device also showed a more than twofold reduction in hypoglycemia time in both adults and adolescents.
A new version of a bionic pancreas device has been tested in two clinical trials, regulating blood sugar in patients with type 1 diabetes using insulin and glucagon. The device adapts to individual needs and prevents hypoglycemia, producing positive results in both adult and adolescent trials.
Researchers developed a non-invasive imaging technique to track beta cell status in type 1 diabetes patients. The PET scan detects the amount of radiotracer in the pancreas, indicating the overall amount or volume of active beta cells present.
A study published in the FASEB Journal found that resveratrol supplements caused significant developmental abnormalities in the pancreas of offspring from pregnant monkeys, raising concerns about their safety during pregnancy. Researchers recommend that pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant avoid taking the supplement.
Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have found that removing immune suppressor cells from pancreas tumors triggers a spontaneous anti-tumor immune response, providing hope for future immunotherapy strategies. The study showed that these cells, called granulocyte-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (Gr-MDSCs), actively work ag...
A new study found that postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may increase the risk of acute pancreatitis. The risk was higher among women who used systemic therapy and those who had used HRT for more than 10 years.
A nationwide study reports a three-fold increase in minimally invasive surgery rates for patients with pancreatic disease, resulting in reduced bleeding, infections, and shorter hospital stays. Surgery performed at teaching hospitals is associated with better outcomes and lower complication rates.
Research by the University of Exeter Medical School reveals two new genetic causes of neonatal diabetes, providing insights into how insulin-producing beta cells are formed in the pancreas. This discovery increases the number of known genetic causes of neonatal diabetes, offering hope for improved treatment and potential therapies.
Scientists have found the cause of a genetic disease, pancreatic agenesis, in previously unexplored regions of DNA. The condition affects babies and leads to diabetes and digestive issues.
A team of researchers at the University of Copenhagen has developed a new 3D method to efficiently expand pancreatic cells, allowing for the growth of miniature human pancreas models. These models can be used to test new drugs and therapies for diabetes without the need for animal models.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found that mice on high-fat diets developed abnormally high numbers of pancreatic lesions, which are precursors to pancreas cancer. A normal diet was shown to have a significant impact on reducing the risk of this deadly disease.
Researchers developed a way to change pancreatic cells to produce insulin, reducing the need for two pancreas donations for successful islet cell transplants. This breakthrough could save months of waiting time for Type 1 diabetes patients and make more organs available.
Researchers discovered that sympathetic neurons communicate with pancreatic islet cells through norepinephrine, influencing their development and function. The study found deformities in the architecture of pancreatic islet cells and defects in insulin secretion and glucose metabolism in mutant mice.
Researchers have found that pancreatic β cells can be regenerated at least three times using a mechanism that involves the forced activation of the Pax 4 gene. This breakthrough suggests that the pancreas has a virtually inexhaustible source of cells capable of replacing lost β cells, offering new hope for treating Type 1 diabetes.
The AGA's 13th annual special issue focuses on the pancreas, presenting a variety of topics related to exocrine function, endocrine regulation, and clinical manifestations. Key findings highlight the importance of innovative treatments for patients with pancreatic diseases.
A recent study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that a single mutation in the SIRT1 gene can cause type 1 diabetes in humans. The researchers identified a previously undocumented mutation that led to an amino acid substitution in the SIRT1 protein, resulting in high levels of blood sugar.
Researchers developed an artificial pancreas that simulates normal pancreatic function by adapting insulin delivery based on changes in glucose levels. The system showed a 15% improvement in glucose control and significantly reduced the risk of hypoglycemia compared to conventional insulin pump therapy.
A randomized trial shows that the dual-hormone artificial pancreas system improved glucose levels and reduced hypoglycemia compared to conventional pump treatment in patients with Type 1 diabetes. The system delivered insulin and glucagon using continuous glucose sensor readings and an intelligent dosing algorithm.