Islet transplantation in Korea.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Transplantation Immunology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) necessitates lifelong insulin therapy due to absolute insulin deficiency.
• Current insulin replacement therapies struggle to manage glycemic fluctuations caused by lifestyle factors.
• Islet transplantation presents an ideal solution by restoring endogenous, glucose-responsive insulin secretion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of allogeneic islet transplantation in patients with T1DM.
• To assess the potential of islet transplantation to restore insulin independence and improve glycemic control.
• To explore islet transplantation as a viable treatment for T1DM, particularly in regions with limited donor availability.

Main Methods:

• Performed two allogeneic islet transplantations in patients with T1DM.
• Monitored recipients for restoration of endogenous insulin production and glycemic control.
• Assessed improvements in hypoglycemia and overall metabolic management post-transplantation.

Main Results:

• One patient achieved near-total insulin independence following one-to-one islet transplantation.
• The second patient did not restore endogenous insulin production but experienced significant reduction in severe hypoglycemia.
• Both cases demonstrated the potential benefits of islet transplantation in managing T1DM complications.

Conclusions:

• Islet transplantation is a promising and ideal treatment for T1DM, especially for managing recurrent severe hypoglycemia.
• Despite challenges like donor scarcity, islet transplantation can significantly improve patient outcomes.
• Further research and development are crucial to expand access to islet transplantation in Asia.