New system to assist diabetics

04-Jun-08

The World Health Organization reports that globally, almost 177 mln people suffer from diabetes currently, and this figure is expected to more than double by 2030. To expedite the treatment process, Biorep® Technologies, a device manufacturer specializing in tools used in diabetes research and treatment developed a new system for isolating insulin-producing cells faster and more efficiently with materials made by SABIC Innovative Plastics. Ultem* Resin Delivers Light Weight, Translucence, and Autoclavability for the Ricordi® Chamber. Biorep's technology enables islets : insulin-producing cells from a donor's pancreas, to be isolated and purified for transplantation in patients whose Type-1 diabetes cannot be controlled with insulin injections. The Ricordi® Chamber is used to break down the pancreas mechanically and chemically to isolate the islets. The Ricordi Chamber was originally custom-made from stainless steel, which was quite heavy to shake during the 30-45 minute isolation process and prevented doctors from visually assessing the progress of the breaking down of the pancreas. By injection molding the Ricordi Chamber from Ultem HU polyetherimide (PEI) resin, a translucent, high-temperature, autoclavable material, Biorep achieved many benefits, the main being mass production, increased speed of parts produced, reduction in manufacturing costs. Ultem resin is a rigid, high-strength thermoplastic that can withstand prolonged exposure to high temperatures and repeated sterilization by autoclaving. It has a translucent, light amber color that allows the doctors to see the pancreas inside the chamber. The excellent chemical resistance of Ultem HU resin was also critical, since the enzymes used during the digestion process are extremely caustic.