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Swiss scientists have recently developed a prototype implant using an electric shock to normalize the expression of genes in encapsulated beta cells, thereby enabling controlled release of insulin. Explanations.
DIRECT CONTROL OF GENE EXPRESSION BY ELECTRICITY
The principle of beta cells in the pancreas is to detect spikes in blood sugar and react by producing and releasing insulin, which allows the body to metabolize glucose. However, in people who suffer from diabetes, these cells no longer play this function properly, which has serious consequences on their health. This imbalance is usually corrected by monitoring blood sugar and regular insulin injections. A protocol that is both rigorous and unpleasant.
On the basis of this observation, a team of researchers from the Federal Polytechnic School of Zurich, whose work was recently published in the journal Science, studied different alternatives and developed a particularly promising experimental instrument.
Made up of a capsule containing modified human beta cells, connected to a printed circuit, the small device they developed can be activated remotely to ensure a controlled release of insulin. When the circuit board is activated by radio waves, an electrical signal is emitted to stimulate the calcium and potassium channels of beta cells, which triggers the expression of the insulin gene and the release of adequate amounts of this protein hormone. in a few minutes.
Ultimately, this material could be grafted under the skin of a diabetic patient. The beta cells could be stimulated on demand in order to ensure the secretion of insulin, either under the control of the patient, his doctor or in an automated manner at predefined time intervals.
