| The Problem As the seventh leading cause of death, diabetes affects about 8.3% of the United States population (about 25.8 million people), 7 million of which are undiagnosed cases. Nearly 250,000 deaths linked to diabetes are reported each year. Finding innovative ways to cure both types of diabetes (Type I and II) can help prevent about 8% of all U.S. deaths, and much suffering in both the U.S. and around the world. Current treatment for Type I diabetes involves pricking in order to collect a blood sample, and then testing the blood sugar levels to determine the amount of insulin that needs to be taken. Another treatment for Type I diabetes is islet transplants; however, this treatment requires immunosuppressants that leave the body susceptible to diseases. Treatment for Type II diabetes involves changes in diet and activity. Insulin is a necessary substance that opens glucose channels in cells. When the body has problems making or using insulin, the blood sugar level and the ability of the cells to use glucose to make energy is affected. Type I Diabetes In Type I diabetes (hereditary), the immune system attacks beta cells (an islet cell in the pancreas that produces insulin), causing an increase in glucose in the blood. Shortly after, alpha cells tend to fail, causing low levels of glucose, thus affecting performance. Type II Diabetes Type II diabetes (can be hereditary or the consequence of lifestyle choices) is caused when the body fails to use insulin properly, usually due to excess fat or inactivity, making it harder for the body to use insulin. |