Recent developements in gene therapy

Gene Therapy Using Ultrasound-Targeted Microbubble DestructionBy Hsien Hsien Lei, PhD Related entries in Genetic Engineering, Genetics of Disease, Genetic Ingenuity
There’s a very cool new way to deliver insulin genes to the pancreas where insulin is normally manufactured. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) delivers the genes encapsulated within microscopic “bubbles.” When the genes have reached the pancreas, the bubbles are popped using ultrasound and the genes are released.
One of the genes that has been successful delivered using UTMD is the hexokinase I gene involved in regulating insulin. In rats, those who received UTMD gene therapy experienced an increase in insulin with a resulting decrease in blood sugar levels.
Dr. Paul Grayburn:
Not only was their blood sugar lowered, but there was no evidence of any damage to the pancreas. Other forms of gene therapy are usually invasive and unlike the UTMD technique, do not target the tissues and organs specifically.
Because the pancreas in people with type 1 diabetes is unable to produce insulin, gene therapy and regeneration of the islet cells could be the two main ways to allow patients to produce their own insulin rather than depend on externally injected insulin. I’m sure my friend Rob at Diabetes Notes thinks this technology couldn’t happen soon enough!
Medical News Today, May 23, 2006
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