Guest Blog: Islet Cell Transplantation

Welcome to the wonderfully exiting world of research!
As the new Islet Cell Transplant Coordinator, I am new to Islet Cell transplant research and thought we could learn about it together.

Over in the Transplant Center at The University of Chicago we are researching the transplantation of islet cells from a deceased donor’s pancreas into a liver of the patient. Islet cells are the cells from the pancreas that produce insulin. First the Islet cells are isolated in a special solution, and then inserted into a liver vein much like any other solution.  This is a non-invasive procedure.

Research on islet transplantation could be helpful for those with Type I to have better control of blood sugars. This research is currently being conducted in those with Type I who have trouble with low blood sugars, where they are no longer able to tell their sugar is too low during those light headed, shaky, wonky (yes, I think I made that word up) moments.

This research is being done in the transplant center because the islet cells that are used come from donated organs, just like a whole pancreas transplant. This research is similar to other studies that have been completed around the country and the world but applies the newest technology for better results.

To find out more about the islet cell transplant research check out the following websites:  www.uchospitals.edu/specialties/transplant/pancreas-islet.html
www.citregistry.org
www.clinicaltrials.gov

Thank you,
Lindsay Schenck, RN, BSN
Islet Cell Transplant Coordinator