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The Future
The use of a virus to genetically change stem cells in the pancreas into insulin producing beta cells
Gene Therapy
Gene therapy is the process of changing a gene so it can be used to treat diseases.
How It Works
Gene therapy uses genetically modified viruses, called viral vectors, to change the genetics in the cell. These viruses have specific makers on the outside coating that attach to specific types of cells. In this case, stem cells in the pancreas.
3D representation of viral vector
The Transformation
The viral vector inserts genetic material into the stem cell. The genetic material alters the DNA of the stem cell to transform it into a beta cell. The newly created beta cell produces enough insulin to combat diabetes.
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