New islet cell research and transplant program launched

With early treatments for chronic pancreatitis and future clinical trials for Type 1 diabetes, the new program is backed by more than $2 million in philanthropic funding.

The new Norton Islet Cell Research and Transplant Program, within the Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute and part of Norton Healthcare and Norton Children’s, is working to find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. The program aims to advance both treatment and research for patients with complex pancreatic and endocrine conditions.

Initially, the program will treat patients with chronic pancreatitis using their own islet cells. A later phase is expected to offer clinical trials to Type 1 diabetes patients using donor cells. The program is part of the nationwide Integrated Islet Distribution Program (IIDP).

The program is funded through more than $2 million in donations to the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation from the James and Judith K. Dimon Foundation, the Lift a Life Novak Family Foundation, and other community gifts. These philanthropic investments are helping accelerate innovation in diabetes research and care.

Read more about this program in a recent Courier-Journal article.
Find out more about how you can help fund innovation in diabetes care.