Results of Stem-Cell Study on Insulin Questioned

By Joe Palca

Published January 17, 2003 at 12:00 AM EST

Harvard scientists discover problems using stem cells to treat diseases such as diabetes. Two years ago, scientists said they successfully nudged stem cells into producing insulin. Now, the newest research suggests those cells weren't really making insulin. NPR's Joe Palca reports.

Joe Palca

Joe Palca is a science correspondent for NPR. Since joining NPR in 1992, Palca has covered a range of science topics — everything from biomedical research to astronomy. He is currently focused on the eponymous series, "Joe's Big Idea." Stories in the series explore the minds and motivations of scientists and inventors. Palca is also the founder of NPR Scicommers – A science communication collective.

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