Doctor James Shapiro

Edmonton Protocol - Goals

The goal of the Edmonton Protocol is to solve long-term issues with islet survival; find an unlimited cell supply source that does not rely on scarce brain-dead organ donors; and find ways to overcome the immune system's natural barrier to a transplant, either through safer immunosuppression or immunological tolerance. Exciting progress is occurring on each of these goals, but it needs to happen faster to stem the ever encroaching tide of diabetes.

The Edmonton Protocol is further researching a new site for implantation of islets in lieu of the liver, which is currently used. Under consideration is a transplantation through laparoscopic surgery of part of a live donor pancreas. Testing of new and exciting drugs is being done to enrich the islets and reduce the need for more caustic anti-rejection drugs. The Protocol is also closely following the progress of scientists working on xenotransplantation of pig islets, as well as approaches in stem cell research.

The research accomplished through the Edmonton Protocol has resulted in tremendous advances through careful steps over the past eight years. Further incremental steps could change the course for all patients with diabetes.