Khaberni - In a medical development that could be a breakthrough, scientists are preparing to conduct a clinical trial this year on a new treatment described as a «potential solution» for type 1 diabetes, potentially eliminating the need for daily insulin injections.
Treatment with Only One Dose
The new treatment, known as KRIYA-839, relies - according to the «Daily Mail» - on an innovative technology that aims to enable the body to produce insulin on its own, possibly for a lifetime, with just one injection.
This approach is radically different from traditional methods, as it does not rely on externally supplementing insulin, but instead transforms muscle cells within the body into «factories» for its production.
How does the treatment work?
The technique relies on introducing genetic instructions into muscle cells, which allows them to produce insulin and other proteins that regulate blood sugar levels continuously.
Researchers have confirmed that the treatment does not involve direct genetic modification, nor does it change the patient's DNA, while it works in a relatively safe manner by directing cells to perform a new function.
The full effect of the treatment is expected to begin within two to three months after injection.
First Human Trial
After promising results in animal trials - where the effect of the treatment lasted up to four years - the treatment will be tested for the first time on humans as part of a study presented at the International Conference on Advanced Technologies and Treatments for Diabetes.
The trial will include adults who have difficulty controlling blood sugar levels, patients using smart insulin pump systems, close monitoring of insulin production and its effect on glucose stability, and participants will receive injections in their thighs during a session lasting no more than an hour.
Expert Opinions
The National Advisor for Diabetes at the UK Health Authority, Dr. Partha Kar described the treatment as «extremely exciting», mentioning the possibility of considering it a «functional treatment» if it proves successful.
He added that even achieving 75% of the body's insulin needs could make a significant difference in the lives of patients, by reducing reliance on injections or medical devices.
Meanwhile, endocrinologist at the University of California, Jeremy Petuous, affirmed that this development represents a real transformation, noting that what was expected to happen in 10 to 15 years «is happening now».
On the other hand, the head of the endocrinology department at the University of Ljubljana Hospital, Tadig Battelino, urged caution in using the term «cure», confirming that the results are still under study, despite the great potential of the treatment.
A Turning Point
The first phase of the trials is scheduled to last one year, to be later expanded to include a broader range of patients, including those who rely on daily injections.
Experts believe that the success of this treatment could represent a turning point in dealing with the disease, moving it from being a chronic condition that requires daily monitoring to a manageable condition with a long-term single intervention.
