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Scaffold-supported Transplantation of Islets in the Epididymal Fat Pad of Diabetic Mice
Published on: July 23, 2017
Islet transplantation: lessons learned since the Edmonton breakthrough.
1Department of Transplantation and Surgery, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary. roblanger@hotmail.com
Transplantation Proceedings
|July 13, 2010
Summary
Clinical islet transplantation showed initial promise but long-term insulin independence declined significantly over time. Further research is needed to improve outcomes for this experimental procedure.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Transplantation Immunology
- Metabolic Diseases
Background:
- The Edmonton protocol revolutionized clinical islet transplantation, offering initial high rates of insulin independence.
- Early studies reported 100% insulin freedom at one year post-transplantation, raising significant hope.
Observation:
- Long-term follow-up revealed a substantial decline in insulin independence, with only about 10% of patients remaining insulin-free at five years.
- Despite initial setbacks, the Edmonton protocol marked a milestone, stimulating global research efforts.
Findings:
- Modifications to the original protocol have been explored to enhance clinical efficacy.
- Islet transplantation, while promising, continues to be classified as an experimental procedure.
Implications:
- Further research is crucial to overcome the challenges of long-term graft survival and function.
- Improving islet transplantation outcomes could offer a viable alternative for managing type 1 diabetes.
