New encapsulation technology for diabetes

Biotech firm Austrianova Biotechnology have demonstrated the feasibility of using their pioneering encapsualtion technology to help prevent diabetes. The study, published by a clinical research group at the Medical University in Graz, Austria who partner Austrianova, is published in the journal Xenotransplantation.
The firm have apparently proved the feasibility of encapsulating an insulin-producing cell line in cellulose sulphate. Austrianova are delighted with the results, because it proves the validity of their technology. The main reference product of the company is known as Nocacaps, and it is regarded as the first encapsulated cell product which causes no adverse events upon delivery of the capsules.
This new type of approach provides fresh hope and promising new medical options when it comes to the treatment of type 1 diabetes. By transplanting microencapsulated cells that are capable of producing insulin, substitution could be achieved and normal functioning resume in the body. Insulin-producing cells that have been encapsulated will react to the stimuli of blood sugar levels, mimicking health cells. Thus, dosing for diabetics could become less relevant.
Austrianova’s conviction that their technique has the potential to treat a number of chronic and genetic diseases could soon be realised.