Disabling a gene brake in pancreatic cells unlocks insulin-producing potential
Harvard Medical School researchers have identified a gene, ALDH3B2, that acts as a 'brake' on pancreatic duct cells. By disabling this gene using CRISPR, they successfully transformed these cells into insulin-producing beta-like cells, offering a potential new pathway for diabetes treatment.
Why it matters
This breakthrough could lead to more effective, long-term treatments for diabetes by restoring the body's natural ability to produce insulin.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Silencing ALDH3B2 made primary human duct cells produce insulin and gain hallmarks of beta cells. Credit: Pexels Type 1 and 2 diabetes are ultimately caused by a shortage of beta (β) cells, which are present in the pancreas and produce insulin to control blood sugar. Researchers from Harvard Medical School found that they can tweak a gene and turn a patient's own pancreatic cells into insulin-producing cells.
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