The disease load of diabetes is high throughout the world—but particularly so in our country. The reason behind is an amalgamation of genetic causes and an unhealthy lifestyle. While we cannot change much about our genetic makeup, it is the ‘lifestyle’ bit of ourselves that we can alter for a healthier way of living.
Scientists are working hard to find new ways of coping with diabetes—as it covers a broad spectrum of health issues. Now, there are developments and new cures that help in better management by competent diabetes specialists. Read on to find these diabetes breakthroughs:
Table of Contents
1-Stem cell implants:
While work on stem cell implant started in the 1960s by big names like Paul Lacy and James Shapiro, last year clinical trials were started for an insulin-producing stem cell device. These stem cells could help patients by producing insulin, and thus reducing the blood sugar level in a diabetic patient.
According to previous research, such implants could mature inside the patient, and help them be independent of external injectable insulin. Subsequent research will show us how effective this treatment could be for diabetics.
2-New beta cells:
In the pancreas, the beta cells are responsible for the production of insulin, and they are destroyed by the immune system in type I diabetes. Scientists have now discovered a new set of beta cells termed, ‘virgin beta cells’ that could be explored for insulin production. Thus, these cells could be used to restore the functionality of the pancreas, and benefit patients with type I diabetes.
3-New mucous membrane in small intestines:
Dutch scientists have unveiled a new procedure whereby insulin dependence in type II diabetics could be eradicated. By destroying the mucous membrane of the small intestine, in an hour-long procedure, a new membrane is encouraged to develop. Hence, this new membrane could reinstate the balance between nutrient absorption and insulin resistance—and it is the latter that is the source of disease in type II diabetics.
4-A blood pressure medication:
A common blood pressure medication—that treats hypertension in pregnant women—can be used to block a molecule implemented in autoimmune response giving rise to type I diabetes. This medication is called methyldopa, and it is on the World Health Organization’s list of essential drugs. More research is needed to see if it as safe as perceived in the reduction of incidence of diabetes.
5-Weight control:
In the UK, a clinical trial found that an intensive weight management and weight control program could help not only prevent diabetes type II, but also reverse it and put it into remission. A similar study in the US, showed parallel results thus supporting the fact that lifestyle improvement and weight control can amend disease and help in its management.
6-Blocking a protein:
Researchers at Lund University in Sweden have found that blocking a particular protein named, VDAC1 in the beta cells of the pancreas (that produce insulin), these cells could return to prior functioning and thus restore the insulin levels in the body. Patients who are in the pre-diabetes stage, or newly diagnosed could benefit most from this discovery. Specific VDAC1 antibodies and inhibitors are designed that could be administered orally to the patient for disease management.
If you have a strong genetic background of diabetes or are a diagnosed case, then seek professional help in dealing with this illness. Book an appointment with top diabetes specialist in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.
