Bioengineering of vascular macrodevices for transplantation of insulin-producing cells

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is caused by the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells (IPCs), resulting in disruptions to blood glucose regulation. Cell therapy is an established, FDA-approved treatment for T1D. Incorporating IPCs into vascularized devices provides a promising strategy to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Here, we discuss the challenges of device vascularization and its role in successful IPC transplantation. We explore state-of-the-art engineering strategies used for the efficient vascularization of IPC encapsulation devices, including material selection, design criteria, and fabrication methods for the production and assembly of vascularization device components. In addition, the current state of research and future clinical applications in this field are discussed.