Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 12, 2026

Prospective, Randomized, and Controlled Study of a Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell Injection for Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Published on: March 3, 2023
Current progress of human trials using stem cell therapy as a treatment for diabetes mellitus
Shuk Kei Cheng1, Elisse Y Park1, Andjela Pehar1
1Georgetown University School of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center Washington DC, USA.
Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus affects millions of people worldwide, and is associated with serious complications that affect nearly all body systems. Because of the severity of this global health concern, there is a great deal of research being performed on alternative treatments and possible cures. Previous treatments for diabetes have included exogenous insulin injection and pancreatic islet transplantations. These treatment methods have several limitations; thus, the use of stem cells in treating diabetes is currently a significant area of research. This review outlines current research on stem cell therapy for diabetes mellitus. Numerous studies have been performed on animals using various types of stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells and embryonic stem cells. Moreover, results and limitations of animal studies have been confirmed in various clinical trials. Overall, stem cell treatment shows prospective advantages over insulin injections and other current treatment options, and ongoing clinical trials suggest that this therapy may be a viable treatment option for diabetics in the near future.
Insights
Stem cell therapy shows promise for treating diabetes mellitus, offering potential advantages over traditional insulin injections. Ongoing clinical trials suggest this innovative approach may soon become a viable option for managing diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus poses a significant global health challenge with severe systemic complications.
- Current treatments like insulin injections and pancreatic islet transplantation have limitations.
- Stem cell therapy is an emerging research area for diabetes treatment.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current research on stem cell therapy for diabetes mellitus.
- It examines studies utilizing various stem cell types, including mesenchymal and embryonic stem cells, primarily in animal models.
- Clinical trial data supporting animal study findings are also considered.
Key Points:
- Stem cell therapy has demonstrated potential in preclinical animal studies for diabetes treatment.
- Mesenchymal stem cells and embryonic stem cells are among the types investigated.
- Clinical trials are validating findings from animal research, showing promising results and identifying limitations.
Conclusions:
- Stem cell therapy presents prospective advantages compared to conventional diabetes treatments.
- Ongoing clinical trials indicate its potential as a future therapeutic option for diabetes mellitus.
- Further research and clinical validation are crucial for widespread adoption.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Stem Cell Culture
iPS Cell Differentiation
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Somatic...
Stem Cell Therapy for Tissue Regeneration
Types of Stem Cells used in Stem Cell Therapy
The two main cell...
Pathophysiology of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, with environmental factors potentially triggering this process in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite many not having a family history, certain genes increase susceptibility,...

