Scientists are zeroing in on a possible cure for diabetes using stem cells.

Local researchers collaborating at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research said they are celebrating an important advancement that brings them closer to developing new treatments for diabetes.

Elliott Lehrer is like many 7-year-old boys. He is happy and active, and also mature beyond his years.

“He understood it from the first day. I am so proud of him,” said Elliott’s mother, Violet.

Just two months ago, Elliott was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes -- a lifelong condition where the body does not produce insulin.

Elliott's mother added, "Since Elliott has been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, his body hasn't been producing insulin, so we are having to supplement insulin into his body."

Before and after every meal, Elliott tests his blood sugar. Twice a day, he gives himself his own insulin injections.

A cure may not be too far away for Elliott and millions of others with diabetes.

At the Burnham Institute for Medical Research, scientists are making insulin-producing cells from adult stem cells that could one day help millions of people with diabetes.

"What we are looking at is a cluster of insulin-producing cells," said Dr. Fred Levine of the Burnham Institute. "In both forms of diabetes, the insulin-producing cells also known as the pancreatic beta cells are either missing or not working properly."

Researchers working with Dr. Fred Levine at the Burnham Institute believe they are closer to finding new therapies for diabetes using stem cells.

Levine added, “There are stem cells in the adult pancreas that can make insulin-producing cells.”

Levine and his colleagues’ discovery could make it possible for insulin-producing stem cells to be transplanted into people with diabetes.

The research team is now focusing on finding a way to make stem cells turn on.

“We are looking for drugs that will activate stem cells and turn them into insulin expressing cells,” said Levine.

The Lehrers believe stem-cell research is the key to finding a cure.

“The thought that the body will naturally produce insulin is very exciting," said Violet Lehrer.

“You’re hopeful that the stem-cell research can lead to a cure for diabetes so kids can be kids. It’s a wonderful thing we can all hope for,” added Elliott’s father, Matt.

Levine said researchers were looking into the possibilities that each person’s own stem cells could be activated and turn them into insulin producing cells.

For more information on stem cell research and diabetes, visit www.burnham.org.