The main objective of Dr. Korbutt’s research is to develop a more accessible source of insulin producing tissue for transplantation into patients with type 1 diabetes. To address the shortage problem, Dr. Korbutt has taken the approach of using xenogeneic islets (neonatal porcine islets) and stem cell derived insulin producing beta cells as a potential sources of islets for transplantation. Currently, his lab is focusing on several key questions including: Developing a clinically applicable extra hepatic transplant site and creating a localized immuno-protective environment to prevent islet cell rejection.