Evaluating iPSC-based interventions for diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Stem Cell Therapy
• Diabetes Mellitus Research

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus (DM) involves progressive beta-cell dysfunction, with current treatments lacking beta-cell mass restoration.
• Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based approaches present a potential regenerative strategy for diabetes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and perform a meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of iPSC-based interventions for diabetes.
• To evaluate iPSC therapies in preclinical diabetes models.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science up to November 2025.
• Systematic review and quantitative synthesis of studies on iPSC-based therapies in diabetic models.

Main Results:

• Thirty-one preclinical studies (424 animals) indicated iPSC interventions reduced mortality (OR 0.14) and blood glucose (MD -267.36).
• Observed improvements in glucose control under various conditions, increased insulin/C-peptide levels, and amelioration of complications like cardiac dysfunction, neuropathy, and retinopathy.

Conclusions:

• iPSC-based therapies demonstrate potential for glycemic control and mitigating diabetes complications in preclinical settings.
• Mechanisms likely involve endocrine replacement and paracrine regeneration, but heterogeneity and model limitations exist.
• Key challenges for clinical translation include immune compatibility, long-term safety, and scalable manufacturing.