Stem cell-based strategies for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus

Importance of the field: beta-Cell regeneration and beta-cell preservation are two promising therapeutic approaches for the management of patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Stem cell-based strategies to address the problems of shortage in beta cells, autoimmune and alloimmune responses have become an area of intense study. Areas covered in this review: This review focuses on the progress that has been made in obtaining functional, insulin-producing cells from various types of stem/progenitor cells, including the current knowledge on the immunomodulatory roles of hematopoietic stem cell and multipotent stromal cell in the therapies for T1D. What the reader will gain: A broad overview of recent advancements in this field is provided. The hurdles that remain in the path of using stem cell-based strategies for the treatment of T1D and possible approaches to overcome these challenges are discussed. Take home message: Stem cell-based strategies hold great promise for the treatment of T1D. In spite of the progress that has been made over the last decade, a number of obstacles and concerns need to be cleared before widespread clinical application is possible. In particular, the mechanism of ESC and iPSC-derived beta-cell maturation in vivo is poorly understood.