Transdifferentiation versus stem cell hypothesis for the regeneration of islet beta-cells in the pancreas

The pancreas is composed of at least three types of differentiated tissue: the hormone-containing cells in islets (4 different cell types), the exocrine zymogen-containing acini, and the centroacinar cells, ductules and ducts (ductal tree). All of these cells appear to have a common origin during embryogenesis in the form of duct-like protodifferentiated cells. Later in life, the acinar and ductal cells retain a significant proliferative capacity that can ensure cell renewal and growth, whereas the islet cells become mitotically inactive. Interestingly, new islet cells, including the insulin-producing beta-cells, can regenerate after tissue injury by a process called neogenesis. The neogenetic process involves differentiation of duct-like (exocrine) epithelial cells to hormone-expressing cells. In this paper, we review the question whether islet beta-cell regeneration or neogenesis in the pancreas depends on "embryonic-like" stem cells or on transdifferentiation of "fully differentiated" cells. This issue is important to find the right model for in vitro research aiming at controlling the process of beta-cell neogenesis. The latter could lead to applications in the treatment of diabetes where functional beta-cells are deficient. We conclude from the available evidence that there is as yet no evidence for the existence of "dormant" stem cells in the adult pancreas. There is some evidence, however, that differentiated exocrine acinar and/or duct cells retain the capacity to transdifferentiate into insulin-expressing beta-cells.