Islet defense

Sernova Corp. is developing its Sertolin cell technology and Cell Pouch System device to provide an immune-privileged, vascularized environment for donor islet cells to produce insulin in insulin-dependent diabetes patients. The approach is intended to overcome problems with traditional islet cell transplantation, including poor rates of cell survival and engraftment, and unwanted immune responses.

Standard islet transplantation involves using a catheter to infuse islet cells into the portal vein of the liver. While minimally invasive, the procedure carries the risk of portal vein thrombosis and intraperitoneal bleeding...