Posted by Alan F. Bachrach, M.D. on February 05, 2001 at 23:17:28:
In Reply to: Re: neurogenin-3 posted by Gabrielle on February 05, 2001 at 22:28:52:
Dear Gabrielle,
Thanks.
I have a Ph.D. (Clinical Psychology) from 1981. However, for many years I have primarily been a consumer of research findings (like most practicing physicians). Even when I was involved in research, the technical background required was in pscyhological measurement, research design and statistics. A long way from immunology.
Your response touched off a series of questions for me. One of the approaches which hasn't seemed to fit into the mainstream of islet cell transplantation work is Dr. Vinik's INGAP. I have made a point of sending money to Steilitz Diabetes Center in Norfolk to support this work. However, INGAP would seem to be only one of a number of factors necessary for the production of islets from ductal precursors. I would presume that a series of these factors is probably necessary and that they must be supplied in the correct "order". I'm sure this is very simplified, but we (internet community?) were sort of given the impression that INGAP was pretty powerful, and potentially could cure DM by causing differentiation of ductal cells faster than they could/would be destroyed. By "tipping the balance" in favor of production, patients would be left with a virtually limitless supply of new islets and hence, cured of DM. Any further comments or thoughts?
Alan