Stem Cell-Derived Islet Therapies Shown to Reduce the Need for Injectable Insulin

Findings from two studies reveal advancements in stem cell-derived treatment options to treat type 1 diabetes. Results from the FORWARD study, also simultaneously published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), evaluating the first and only allogeneic, stem-cell derived, islet cell therapy and a study of genetically modified stem cells were unveiled as an oral presentation and late-breaking poster, respectively, at the 85th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association® (ADA) in Chicago.

Since the 1920s, the standard of care for type 1 diabetes was insulin replacement therapy—requiring millions of Americans to administer insulin via a pump or injection multiple times a day. There is a growing body of research for alternative treatment solutions including allogenic therapies, where stem cells are used to regenerate damaged or impaired tissues as well as insulin production.