Recent advancements in cell therapy offer hope for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, potentially eliminating the need for insulin injections. Researchers, including Professor Yin Hao, are developing innovative methods involving isolating, reprogramming, and reimplanting cells to restore insulin production in the pancreas.
In Shanghai, a 59-year-old male patient with a 25-year history of type 2 diabetes achieved insulin independence within 11 weeks post-transplantation after receiving stem cell-derived islet transplantation in July 2021. Oral medication was discontinued a year later, and follow-up examinations revealed restored pancreatic function. Similarly, in November 2024, a 25-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes in China successfully underwent stem-cell therapy, remaining insulin-free for over a year.
Despite these promising results, challenges remain, including the need for long-term immune suppression and potential resistance from pharmaceutical companies. Companies like Vertex Pharmaceuticals are exploring solutions such as encapsulation devices to shield transplanted cells from the immune system. Further research and clinical trials are necessary to confirm the long-term efficacy and broaden the applicability of these treatments, potentially transforming diabetes care worldwide.