Encapsulated stem cell-derived β cells exert glucose control in patients with type 1 diabetes

Clinical studies using device-encapsulated pancreatic precursor cells from human embryonic stem cells for type 1 diabetes treatment showed insufficient insulin output. A phase 1/2 trial (NCT03163511) aimed to optimize cell engraftment. Interim 1-year results from a group receiving higher cell doses in devices with optimized membrane perforation showed that three of ten patients with undetectable baseline C-peptide achieved levels ≥0.1 nmol l⁻¹ from month 6, correlating with improved glucose control measures and reduced insulin dosing. The patient with the highest C-peptide (0.23 nmol l⁻¹) increased CGM time-in-range from 55% to 85% at month 12; β cell mass at month 6 was 4% of the initial cell mass, suggesting areas for improvement.

Bart Keymeulen, Kaat De Groot, Daniel Jacobs-Tulleneers-Thevissen, David M. Thompson, Melena D. Bellin, Evert J. Kroon, Mark Daniels, Richard Wang, Manasi Jaiman, Timothy J. Kieffer, Howard L. Foyt, Daniel Pipeleers