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Updated: Jun 7, 2026
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Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells into Insulin-Producing Islet Clusters
Published on: June 23, 2023
4.9K
Less is more: Reducing zinc to boost stem cell-derived islet function and survival.
Hazem Ibrahim1, Diego Balboa1, Timo Otonkoski2
1Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.
Cell Stem Cell
|April 3, 2026
Summary
Inhibition of zinc transport in stem cell-derived islets surprisingly boosts beta cell function. This approach enhances islet maturation, resilience to low oxygen, and improves transplant outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Research
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- Zinc is crucial for insulin packaging within secretory granules.
- Reduced zinc transporter activity in beta cells paradoxically improves their function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of pharmacologic inhibition of zinc transport on stem cell-derived islets.
- To determine if modulating zinc transport can enhance beta cell function and therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Utilized stem cell-derived islets.
- Applied pharmacologic inhibition of zinc transport.
- Assessed key markers of beta cell function and therapeutic efficacy.
Main Results:
- Inhibition of zinc transport activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling.
- Enhanced beta cell maturation and improved resistance to hypoxia.
- Increased vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) expression.
- Improved performance of islet grafts in vivo.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacologic inhibition of zinc transport is a promising strategy to enhance stem cell-derived islet function and therapeutic potential.
- Modulating zinc homeostasis offers a novel approach for improving beta cell replacement therapies.
