• REGENERATION THERAPY FOR DIABETES MELLITUS: A REVIEW

Abstract

Decrease in beta cell mass and its function are common observations in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore recovery of these cells may be an option for treating diabetes mellitus permanently. Islet transplantation has shown some advantages such as insulin independency and restoration of normal metabolic functions. The major hurdle in this technique is insufficient number of islet donors. This strategy involves the differentiations of cell by either in vivo or in vitro regeneration of insulin producing cells. Adult or embryonic stem cells, acinar cells, progenitor cells and other endocrine cells have been used in this technique. Development of functionally mature beta cell and safety of cells producing insulin are major hurdles for clinical application of this strategy. This article reviews the various recent strategies for major hurdles in management of diabetes.