As well as performing successful islet cell transplants, our clinicians and scientists at SVI and SVHM are also working on ways to make the procedure safer and more effective. For example, we are part of a new Consortium effort developing novel tolerance protocols for islet transplantation using new reagents and drugs (funded by a JDRF Clinical Research Network). The clinical Transplant Program also provides a valuable opportunity for clinical research on human islets obtained but insufficient or not suitable for transplant. In the future, this program will provide a platform for future innovations in beta-cell replacement for type 1 diabetes, e.g. pig islet cells and encapsulation of islet cells.