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The DRI is investigating the possibility of transplanting insulin-producing islet cells by placing them inside a tiny bioengineered device, and then implanting that device under the recipient's skin.
As part of this approach, low-dose immunosuppressants would be delivered directly into the device -- eliminating the need to use potentially harmful drugs throughout the recipient's body.
With funding provided by Converge, a biotechnology company formed in collaboration with DRI and the University of Miami, researchers are exploring the use of several drugs, including corticosteroids, a “soft drug” for local use, since it is specifically designed to deliver the desired therapy and then break down into a harmless substance.
This approach will test the ability to achieve long-term graft acceptance and transplantation tolerance with local, low dose immunosuppressive drugs.
In addition, local drug delivery could eliminate many of the serious problems associated with current systemic therapies, including inflammation and infections.
>>Read Research Summary About "Soft Drugs"
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This tiny device could be used to deliver low-dose anti-rejection drugs.
If an implanted device (figure on left) is successful, then the likelihood of serious side effects can be avoided.
Also, much smaller doses are required since concentration levels (denoted by red color) have to be maintained only within the device.
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