Objective
Project Objective is to generate IND enabling data package for hypoimmunogenic islet cells to treat Type 1 Diabates.
Background Rationale
The ability to restore long-term normal blood glucose levels with islets from a cadaceric donor, without the need of immunosuppression using a low morbidity procedure, in a retrievable site that can be non-invasively monitored has not been attainable previously.
Description of Project
Pancreatic islet transplantation has become a more viable approach to treat patients with established Type 1 diabetes. However, widespread application has been limited by several barriers, most importantly, poor islet survival due to immune rejection and the need for longterm immunosuppression. Transplantation of hypoimmunogenic islets may lead to dramatic improvement in islet survival and function since no immunosuppression is needed. The intramuscular transplant site enables easy access and monitoring.
Anticipated Outcome
Successful manufacture of hypoimmunogenic islet cells that then can be used in clinical trial for Type I diabets.
Relevance to T1D
If successful, this work can lead to a more effective therapy that directly benefits patients with Type 1 diabetes and those who are on insulin therapy. By developing a hypoimmunogenic platform without the need of immunosuppression and a retrievable transplant site, this approach also paves the way for future clinical translation of stem cell-derived islets that can potentially invigorate research and biotechnology development for Type 1 diabetes.