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University of Wisconsin Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Center

Pancreatic Islet Cell Replacement

Research > Pancreatic Islet Cell Replacement

Human ESCs, from Odorico lab
Human ESCs exposed to developmentally relevant growth factors including bone morphogenetic proteins and fibroblast growth factors show expression of pancreatic cell type markers. PDX1+ cell foci emerge (A and D); a subset of PDX1+ cells express insulin (B and E and merged images). (from Odorico lab)

The focus of stem cell biology in the endocrine system has largely been on pancreatic biology. The loss of islet beta cells in the pancreas leads to type I (juvenile) diabetes. The adult human pancreas does not appear to possess a regenerative capacity, as do other organs such as the blood, liver, or skin.

Whether the pancreas contains stem cells is a research area under intense investigation. Alternatives would be to transplant either embryonic stem cell derived islet cells, beta cells, or their progenitors grown in culture dishes.

UW-Madison researchers are exploring ways to improve methods of differentiating human embryonic stem cells into insulin-producing beta cells, and are studying the roles of key regulating genes and growth factors in this process. Ongoing experience with beta cell replacement therapy in humans using deceased donor organs should provide the foundation for rapid translation of pioneering stem cell research into a future clinical therapy.

Faculty: Jon Odorico