Islet encapsulation. Issue 42 (11th October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ernst, Alexander Ulrich; Wang, Long-Hai; Ma, Minglin
• Is Part Of: Journal of materials chemistry. Volume 6:Issue 42(2018)
• Page Start: 6705
• Page End: 6722
• Publication Date: 2018-10-11
• Subjects: Materials -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Analytic -- Periodicals; Biomedical materials -- Research -- Periodicals; 543.0284
• DOI: 10.1039/c8tb02020e
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-750X

Abstract

Abstract : Review of emerging advances and persisting challenges in the engineering and translation of islet encapsulation technologies. Abstract : This review focuses on recent engineering advances in islet encapsulation technologies. β cell replacement therapy in the form of allogeneic naked islet transplantation has become an established treatment for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). However, some limitations still impact the broad applicability and long-term efficacy of the procedure, including shortage of donor islets, the need for lifelong immunosuppression, and restriction to the most vulnerable patients. Islet encapsulation promises to overcome these constraints by providing a selectively permeable barrier between host and therapeutic tissues. While tremendous progress has been made and the clearing of key translational hurdles appears to be near, many challenges need to be addressed before this technology platform can enter the clinic. Here, we summarize the research in this area and seek to identify the outstanding challenges in translating islet encapsulation technology to human patients.