Emerging strategies for beta cell transplantation to treat diabetes. (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Paez-Mayorga, Jesus; Lukin, Izeia; Emerich, Dwaine; de Vos, Paul; Orive, Gorka; Grattoni, Alessandro
• Is Part Of: Trends in pharmacological sciences. Volume 43:Number 3(2022)
• Page Start: 221
• Page End: 233
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: Microencapsulation -- macroencapsulation -- pancreatic islets -- immunoisolation -- immune rejection -- vascularization; Pharmacology -- Periodicals; Pharmacology -- trends -- Periodicals; Pharmacologie -- Périodiques; Pharmacology; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.11.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0165-6147

Abstract

Abstract : Beta cell replacement has emerged as an attractive therapeutic alternative to traditional exogenous insulin administration for management of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Beta cells deliver insulin dynamically based on individual glycometabolic requirements, providing glycemic control while significantly reducing patient burden. Although transplantation into the portal circulation is clinically available, poor engraftment, low cell survival, and immune rejection have sparked investigation of alternative strategies for beta cell transplantation. In this review, we focus on current micro- and macroencapsulation technologies for beta cell transplantation and evaluate their advantages and challenges. Specifically, we comment on recent methods to ameliorate graft hypoxia including enhanced vascularization, reduction of pericapsular fibrotic overgrowth (PFO), and oxygen supplementation. We also discuss emerging beta cell-sourcing strategies to overcome donor shortage and provide insight into potential approaches to address outstanding challenges in the field. Highlights: Beta cell replacement is an attractive therapeutic alternative for management of T1D. Low cell survival and immune rejection have sparked investigation of alternative strategies for beta cell transplantation. Micro- and macroencapsulation technologies open new doors for beta cell transplantation. Strategies devoted to ameliorate graft hypoxia may help to address outstanding challenges in the field.