![Diagram of pig islet cells encapsulated within alginate coating.](http://static.sciencelearn.org.nz/images/images/000/001/010/full/encapsulated_pig_islet_diagram_oversize20160405-12825-1pv66b1.jpg?1674165271)
Diagram of pig islet cells encapsulated within a seaweed-based alginate coating. Living Cell Technologies (LCT) encapsulates the islet cells to protect them from the transplant recipient’s immune system. The coating is semi-permeable – it allows small molecules, such as nutrients and insulin, to diffuse in and out but is a physical barrier to larger molecules, such as antibodies.