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Clinical pancreatic islet transplantation
A M James Shapiro1,2,3, Marta Pokrywczynska2,3,4, Camillo Ricordi2,3,5
1Clinical Islet Transplant Program, University of Alberta, 2000 College Plaza, 8215 112th Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C8, Canada.
Nature Reviews. Endocrinology
|November 12, 2016
Summary
Pancreatic islet transplantation is a safe treatment for type 1 diabetes, improving outcomes for patients with severe hypoglycemia. Ongoing research aims to make this therapy more accessible and potentially curative.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Transplant Surgery
- Cellular Therapy for Diabetes
Background:
- Clinical pancreatic islet transplantation is a minimally invasive procedure with significant advancements.
- Over 1,500 patients have been treated since 2000, establishing it as a viable option for specific type 1 diabetes mellitus cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the techniques for human islet isolation, culture, and transplantation.
- To discuss indications, immunosuppression optimization, and adjunctive therapies.
- To explore risks, long-term outcomes, and future advancements for wider availability and potential cure.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical practices in islet isolation and transplantation.
- Analysis of immunosuppression protocols and immunomodulatory strategies.
- Evaluation of post-transplant management and long-term patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Pancreatic islet transplantation has evolved into a realistic treatment for selected type 1 diabetes patients.
- Significant progress in islet processing and transplant outcomes has been achieved.
- The procedure is considered safe and less invasive compared to other transplant types.
Conclusions:
- Clinical islet transplantation offers a promising therapeutic strategy for type 1 diabetes, particularly for those with glycemic control challenges.
- Further research and optimization are crucial for expanding access and achieving a potential cure.
- Continued advancements in immunosuppression and post-transplant care are key to long-term success.
