Type 1 and type 2 diabetes is still one of the biggest healthcare challenges we face in the world today. Traditional methods such as insulin therapy and lifestyle management are effective but limited, therefore in recent years, a potential curative procedure such as mesenchymal stem cell therapy (MSC therapy) for diabetes management has been developed. MSCs have received attention as a potential regenerative medicine option, which is particularly beneficial for diabetes individuals as they can target the underlying causes of diabetes and its complications.
What do you know about Mesenchymal Stem Cells?
Introduction[edit] Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stromal cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types, including: osteoblasts, myoblasts, and adipocytes.[1] They were first discovered in the bone marrow and have now been identified in fat (adipose tissue),[2] dental pulp,[3] umbilical cord blood,[4] and the synovial membrane. For therapeutic applications, one of the most attractive properties of MSCs is their differentiation potential into a range of different cell types including bone, cartilage, and fat cells. Moreover, the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of MSCs are important for the treatment of autoimmune diseases including T1D.
MSCs also play a role in diabetes management
Diabetes, and type 1 in particular, is driven by the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas from an autoimmune reaction. By regenerating these damaged cells, MSCs may provide a therapeutic avenue for the replenishment of insulin-producing cells. In addition, in type 2 diabetes, where the underlying pathology is mainly insulin resistance, MSCs can modulate immune responses and inflammatory responses, effectively improving insulin sensitivity.
Previous studies have shown that MSCs are capable of regulating blood glucose levels, increasing insulin production, and reversing pancreatic injury in models of diabetes. These characteristics make MSC therapy an effective alternative in the management of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, targeting the root causes of the disease rather than just its symptoms.
Mechanisms of Action
The mechanisms through which MSCs exert their therapeutic effect are manifold, and can include:
1. Immune System Modulation: In type 1 diabetes, the immune system erroneously targets pancreatic beta cells. MSCs can downregulate this immune response, blunting inflammation and preventing further damage of beta cells.
2. Induction of Beta Cell Regeneration: MSCs are also known to enhance the regenerative process of pancreatic beta cells. This is especially advantageous for type 1 diabetic patients, in which the insulin deficiency is the main problem.
3. Decreased Insulin Resistance: In T2D, MSCs can alter the immune system to decrease inflammation, a driving force in insulin resistance. By decreasing systemic inflammation, MSCs will restore body insensitivity to insulin.
4. Angiogenesis and Tissue Repair: One of the complications of diabetes is poor wound healing and cardiovascular complications. In diabetic patients with DI, MSCs can stimulate angiogenesis (the development of new blood vessels), aiding in the repair of damaged tissue and enhancing overall vascular health.
Salient Features of MSC Therapy in Diabetes Management
An ability to provide long-term relief (diminished need for insulin injections or oral medications) is one of the most satisfactory benefits of MSC therapy. MSC therapy has a substantial ability to treat the pathogenesis of diabetes, a feature that most traditional drugs, which only manage blood glucose levels, are limited to.
In addition, MSC therapy is minimally invasive with a low risk of adverse events. As MSCs are usually isolated from the patients’ own tissues, there is at most a low risk of rejection or complications, which makes this a safer treatment method compared to many conventional therapies.
Pending clinical trials and further research
Numerous clinical trials are currently being performed to judge the effectiveness of MSC therapy for the treatment of diabetes. Preliminary evidence is encouraging, with individuals reportedly experiencing improved control of blood glucose, lower insulin needs and the restoration of pancreatic tissue. This could soon be used as a treatment option for diabetes, maybe even a cure for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as research is ongoingBasic aspects of MSC therapy are possible.
Deduction
Mesenchyal stem cell therapy can international change in management of diabetes. As MSCs can show both immune response in case of type 1 diabetes and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes we could conclude that by targeting both of these the type of disease can be managed and in some case it can even lead to curing the disease itself. However, current advances in clinical trials and earlier stages of research suggest that MSC therapy may be the future of diabetes treatment, potentially offering millions of patients a new opportunity for improved health and a better quality of life.