Adult stem cells as a renewable source of insulin-producing cells

Preservation of β-Cells as a Therapeutic Strategy for Diabetes

The preservation of pancreatic islet β-cells is crucial in diabetes mellitus, encompassing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. β-cell dysfunction, reduced mass, and apoptosis are central to insufficient insulin secretion in both types. Research is focused on understanding β-cell characteristics and the factors regulating their function to develop novel therapeutic approaches. In type 1 diabetes (T1D), β-cell destruction by the immune system calls for exploring immunosuppressive therapies, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and leukotriene antagonists. Islet transplantation, stem cell therapy, and xenogeneic transplantation offer promising strategies for type 1 diabetes treatment. For type 2 diabetes (T2D), lifestyle changes like weight loss and exercise enhance insulin sensitivity and maintain β-cell function. Additionally, various pharmacological approaches, such as cytokine inhibitors and protein kinase inhibitors, are being investigated to protect β-cells from inflammation and glucotoxicity. Bariatric surgery emerges as an effective treatment for obesity and T2D by promoting β-cell survival and function. It improves insulin sensitivity, modulates gut hormones, and expands β-cell mass, leading to diabetes remission and better glycemic control. In conclusion, preserving β-cells offers a promising approach to managing both types of diabetes. By combining lifestyle modifications, targeted pharmacological interventions, and advanced therapies like stem cell transplantation and bariatric surgery, we have a significant chance to preserve β-cell function and enhance glucose regulation in diabetic patients.

Stem cells as a potential therapy for diabetes mellitus: a call-to-action in Latin America

Latin America is a fast-growing region that currently faces unique challenges in the treatment of all forms of diabetes mellitus. The burden of this disease will be even greater in the coming years due, in part, to the large proportion of young adults living in urban areas and engaging in unhealthy lifestyles. Unfortunately, the national health systems in Latin-American countries are unprepared and urgently need to reorganize their health care services to achieve diabetic therapeutic goals. Stem cell research is attracting increasing attention as a promising and fast-growing field in Latin America. As future healthcare systems will include the development of regenerative medicine through stem cell research, Latin America is urged to issue a call-to-action on stem cell research. Increased efforts are required in studies focused on stem cells for the treatment of diabetes. In this review, we aim to inform physicians, researchers, patients and funding sources about the advances in stem cell research for possible future applications in diabetes mellitus. Emerging studies are demonstrating the potential of stem cells for β cell differentiation and pancreatic regeneration. The major economic burden implicated in patients with diabetes complications suggests that stem cell research may relieve diabetic complications. Closer attention should be paid to stem cell research in the future as an alternative treatment for diabetes mellitus.

Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Inhibits Apoptosis and Promotes Proliferation of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Isolated from Patients with Type 2 Diabetes by Reducing Cellular Oxidative Stress

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disorder affecting increasing number of people in developed countries. Therefore new strategies for treatment of T2D and its complications are of special interest. Nowadays, cellular therapies involving mesenchymal stromal cells that reside in adipose tissue (ASCs) constitute a promising approach; however, there are still many obstacles concerning safety and effectiveness that need to be overcome before ASCs could be engaged for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. One of the challenges is preventing ASCs from deterioration caused by elevated oxidative stress present in diabetes milieu. In the current study we investigated the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) treatment on ASCs isolated from patients with diagnosed T2D. We demonstrate here that cell exposition to bFGF in 5 and 10 ng/mL dosages results in improved morphology, increased proliferative activity, reduced cellular senescence and apoptosis, and decreased oxidative stress, indicating recovery of ASCs' function impaired by T2D. Therefore our results provide a support for bFGF as a potential therapeutic agent for improving stem cell-based approaches for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its complications.

Cell replacement and regeneration therapy for diabetes

Reduction of beta cell function and a beta cell mass is observed in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, restoration of this deficiency might be a therapeutic option for treatment of diabetes. Islet transplantation has benefits, such as reduced incidence of hypoglycemia and achievement of insulin independence. However, the major drawback is an insufficient supply of islet donors. Transplantation of cells differentiated in vitro or in vivo regeneration of insulin-producing cells are possible approaches for beta cell/islet regenerative therapy. Embryonic and adult stem cells, pancreatic ductal progenitor cells, acinar cells, and other endocrine cells have been shown to differentiate into pancreatic beta cells. Formation of fully functional beta cells and the safety of these cells are critical issues for successful clinical application.