Stem cell breakthrough for producing pancreatic tissue
April 4, 2008 | Source: KurzweilAI
University of Manchester and University of Sheffield researchers have discovered a new technique to turn embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into insulin-producing pancreatic tissue through genetic manipulation.
By making the ESC produce transcription factor PAX4, 20% became pancreatic beta cells.
Scientists have had difficulty turning stem cells into the specific cell required for any particular condition. Unprompted, the majority of stem cells turn into neurons.