Novel stem cell therapy shows promise for type 1 diabetes care

Image credit: nci via Unsplash

Results from a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), have shown that a first of its kind allogeneic stem cell-derived islet cell therapy can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for injectable insulin in patients with type 1 diabetes. By transplanting lab-grown insulin-producing cells into patients, researchers have restored the bodyโ€™s ability to regulate blood sugar naturally. Early clinical results show promise in transforming type 1 diabetes care, with many participants achieving sustained insulin independence or significantly lower insulin requirements.

Source

Reichman TW, Markmann JF, Odorico J, Witkowski P, Fung JJ, Wijkstrom M, Kandeel F, de Koning EJP, Peters AL, Mathieu C, Kean LS, Bruinsma BG, Wang C, Mascia M, Sanna B, Marigowda G, Pagliuca F, Melton D, Ricordi C, Rickels MR; VX-880-101 FORWARD Study Group. Stem Cell-Derived, Fully Differentiated Islets for Type 1 Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2025 Sep 4;393(9):858-868. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2506549. Epub 2025 Jun 20. PMID: 40544428.

Additional Reading

https://diabetes.org/newsroom/press-releases/stem-cell-derived-islet-therapies-shown-reduce-need-injectable-insulin

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250620485709/en/Vertex-Presents-Positive-Data-for-Zimislecel-in-Type-1-Diabetes-at-the-American-Diabetes-Association-85th-Scientific-Sessions

https://www.hsci.harvard.edu/news/new-therapy-treating-type-1-diabetes

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