Generation of stem cell-derived β-cells from patients with type 1 diabetes

Nat Commun. 2016 May 10:7:11463. doi: 10.1038/ncomms11463.

Abstract

We recently reported the scalable in vitro production of functional stem cell-derived β-cells (SC-β cells). Here we extend this approach to generate the first SC-β cells from type 1 diabetic patients (T1D). β-cells are destroyed during T1D disease progression, making it difficult to extensively study them in the past. These T1D SC-β cells express β-cell markers, respond to glucose both in vitro and in vivo, prevent alloxan-induced diabetes in mice and respond to anti-diabetic drugs. Furthermore, we use an in vitro disease model to demonstrate the cells respond to different forms of β-cell stress. Using these assays, we find no major differences in T1D SC-β cells compared with SC-β cells derived from non-diabetic patients. These results show that T1D SC-β cells could potentially be used for the treatment of diabetes, drug screening and the study of β-cell biology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental / pathology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental / physiopathology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental / therapy
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / drug therapy
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / pathology*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / pharmacology
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells / drug effects
  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells / pathology*
  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells / physiology
  • Insulin
  • Insulin-Secreting Cells / drug effects
  • Insulin-Secreting Cells / pathology*
  • Insulin-Secreting Cells / physiology
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, SCID
  • Stem Cell Transplantation

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Insulin