Following are some questions and answers from the previously posted
article. The reply from Paul's note indicates that this drug does
halt the immunity system's destruction of islet cells and could help
long term diabetics though they are not going to recruit long term
diabetics for the Phase II study. I think it sounds promising. I
wonder why this wasn't in the news and whether JDRF is involved. It
sounds like a breakthrough to me!
Ellen


So, is this intended for newly diagnosed and "pre-diabetic" Type 1's
only? If the disease is NOT in the pre-diabtetic phase, or
the "honeymoon" period in a newly diagnosed Type 1, the immune system
has already destroyed all of the insulin producing cells, wouldn't
work, right? Of course, islet cell transplants might be more
effective and long lasting with the addition of this drug?
Tihamer Orban2008-02-14T22:58:19
Report Abuse
Zan, thank you for your note. The phase II study will look at newly
diagnosed again (<3 months), but this approach is very much
applicable for the pre-diabetic subjects as well. It is not too late
for newly diagnosed patients a most of them at the time of diagnosis
have 20-40% of their insulin producing cell function present and will
continue to have some during the honey moon period.

Paul G.2008-02-15T19:02:40
Report Abuse
I have heard that even mature diabetics still have the capability of
making insulin producing cells (beta cells), however they are
attacked and destroyed before they can get established. Is this true?
If this is the case, would this treatment change that?
Tihamer Orban2008-02-15T22:55:35
Report Abuse
Paul, few long term Type 1 diabetics can have some self insulin
production present for many years after diagnosis. Body has the
capacity to make insulin producing cell and they are constantly
destroyed by the immune system. Yes, this insulin B-chain vaccine or
other interventions which would be able to stop the attack would
change that and could help long term patient with the disease.
Ken A2008-02-17T10:19:46
Report Abuse
So in essence these insulin producing cells are destroyed by the
immune system, is there anyway of telling if a Type 1 diabetic has
these cells or is producing them. How about if a person is diabetic,
has no cells but is vaccinated, then will cells have to be
transplanted? I'm an engineer not a biologist so please forgive me if
i'm not clear on some of these aspects. I have a friend who is type 1
diabetic and I'll be forwarding your article to him regarding your
very encouraging work. Thank You.
Susan2008-02-17T22:27:57
Report AbuseHave you asked the JDRF For financial support? It is my
understanding the fund a LOT of research and, from a quick
explanation, this sounds fundable?