AACE MENA 2025-Islet Cell Transplant, Innovations in Type 1 Diabetes Management

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The 35-minute talk provides an in-depth overview of the current understanding and management of type 1 diabetes (T1D), focusing on islet transplantation and emerging stem cell therapies. Beginning with the history of insulin discovery and the ongoing challenges despite advances like continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems, the speaker highlights the significant burden of T1D on patients, including frequent medical decisions and risks like severe hypoglycemia. The talk emphasizes that while current technologies improve control, many patients still struggle to maintain target A1C without dangerous lows.<br /><br />Islet transplantation is presented as a promising alternative to pancreas transplants, offering potential insulin independence with fewer complications. Outcomes from notable cohorts in Canada, Italy, France, and the U.S. show substantial graft survival and reduced hypoglycemia and complications, though challenges remain, such as donor shortages and immune rejection. Advances in immunosuppression, including novel drugs and hypoimmune cell technologies using CRISPR, are improving transplant success.<br /><br />Stem cell-derived islets, particularly using pluripotent stem cells, are discussed as the future direction, offering off-the-shelf cell replacement therapies currently in clinical trials. These therapies have shown promising results in reducing insulin needs, eliminating severe hypoglycemia, and improving glucose control, with potential for a functional cure. The talk concludes that emerging cell-based therapies, combined with precision medicine, will transform T1D care, emphasizing the need for specialized training for future diabetologists in these advances.

Keywords

Type 1 Diabetes

Islet Transplantation

Stem Cell Therapy

Insulin Independence

Hypoglycemia

Immunosuppression

CRISPR

Precision Medicine