GoKawiilPeking University stem-cell trial frees type 1 diabetes patient from insulin injections
Researchers led by immunologist Hongkui Deng at Peking University transplanted lab-grown pancreatic islet cells, derived from a patient's own reprogrammed fat cells, into a young woman with type 1 diabetes. Nearly three years after the 2024 procedure, she no longer requires insulin injections and reports stable blood-sugar levels.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The case suggests induced pluripotent stem cells could offer a personalized alternative to organ transplants or lifelong insulin therapy for some autoimmune conditions, according to Deng's team. Because the cells are derived from the patient's own tissue, this approach may reduce reliance on immunosuppressive drugs typically needed with donor transplants, though wider trials would be needed to confirm safety and durability.
- A type 1 diabetes patient became insulin-independent after receiving lab-grown islet cells made from her own reprogrammed fat cells.
- The trial, led by Hongkui Deng at Peking University, used induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology.
- Nearly three years post-treatment, the patient maintains stable blood-sugar levels without insulin injections.
Source: nature.com — Nuwer, 2026-09-23
Published there as: “‘Remarkably encouraging’: stem-cell treatments for autoimmune diseases enter new phase”
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