University of Alberta
University of Alberta researchers made an international breakthrough with the transplantation of islets from cadaveric donors to treat type 1 diabetics. The islets are infused into the patient's portal vein. Transplanted islets can improve blood glucose control and reduce the amount of insulin needed. Insulin independence is not usually sustainable in the long term, but the transplanted islets still function enough to provide protection from severe hypoglycemic episodes and fainting. This discovery, the Edmonton Protocol, has paved the way to the construction and establishment of the ACTM to build on these findings and implement usage of alternative sources of islet cells.
CellCAN is a Canadian network focused on advancing cell and gene therapy manufacturing under GMP through the deployment of standards for training that implement best practices.