Stem Cell Therapy For Type 1 Diabetes

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes is an increasingly widespread autoimmune disorder that destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Without insulin, the cells cannot insert glucose transporters into their membrane and blood sugar subsequently rises. The effects of type 1 diabetes can develop into various life-threatening conditions including heart attacks and strokes. Insulin therapy is required for type 1 diabetics, but its short-lived effects are less than ideal and often decrease quality of life. Stem cells offer a long-term solution with their ability to differentiate into insulin-producing beta cells and modulate the immune system. They can be injected directly into the body or implanted in encapsulated devices. Regardless of the technique, stem cells can restore insulin production in the body and offer a potential cure for type 1 diabetes. Stem cell therapy has a list of benefits, but the advanced technology will inevitably come with a high price tag, contributing to the increasingly inaccessible treatment options for type 1 diabetes. Should future success convince the FDA to approve its clinical use and convince insurance to cover the procedure, the long-term solution of stem cell therapy might replace insulin injections forever.