Can Stem Cell Transplantation Restore Insulin Levels in Diabetics?

Authors

Nechama Mendelson

Abstract

A recent public interest in stem cell research has led to new approaches to treat various pathologies, including diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to the inability of the β cells in the pancreas to produce insulin. Therefore, the standard diabetes treatment is introducing insulin to the bloodstream. With the advancement of stem cell therapy, a new approach to treating diabetes mellitus is being researched. Scientists are working to differentiate pluripotent stem cells into mature insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells. These cells are then transplanted into in vivo models and observed after a glucose challenge for normal blood glucose and elevated C-peptide levels. The subjects in each study are monitored, and the efficacy of each implantation is evaluated. Scientists have engineered novel retrievable encapsulation devices to prevent an autoimmune attack that can be easily removed in the event of tumor growth. It is evident that there is much potential to stem cell therapy and beta-cell encapsulation as an alternate treatment for diabetes.

Recommended Citation

Nechama Mendelson. (2022). Can Stem Cell Transplantation Restore Insulin Levels in Diabetics?. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 16(1), 50-55. Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol16/iss1/9