PRE CLINICAL TRIAL WITH FETAL PIG INSULIN-PRODUCING CELLS [ 2001 - 2002 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Bernard Tuch (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Gregory Keogh ,  Prof Ann Simpson

Brief description If fetal pig cells are to be of value in normalizing blood glucose levels in diabetic people once transplanted, they must survive and mature after being grafted. The pre-clinical study proposed will examine several novel issues that are of direct relevance to future clinical trials. The diabetic pig will be used as recipient to address when the fetal cell matures after it is transplanted, how long the grafted cells will maintain normal blood glucose levels, and at which site it is most appropriate to transplant the cells. The baboon will be used as recipient to address the safety of transplanting the pig cells, especially from the pig endogenous retrovirus, and whether the immunosuppressive regime proposed for use in humans will prevent cellular rejection. The diabetic baboon will be used in the final experiment step to determine if normalization of blood glucose levels can be achieved in this xenografted animal just as it can in the diabetic pig.

Funding Amount $AUD 292,416.72

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant