Exploring the Role of Stem Cell Therapy in Diabetes: From Benchside Research to Clinical Applications and Beyond

Abstract

The chronic metabolic disease known as diabetes mellitus, which is defined by hyperglycemia, presents enormous difficulties to the health of people all over the world due to the prevalence of the condition and the consequences it causes. Although they are efficient in treating symptoms, traditional treatments do not address the pathophysiological factors that are occurring beneath the surface. Because it can restore normal glucose metabolism and heal damaged tissues, stem cell treatment has emerged as a possible alternative solution. Within the scope of this review, the function of stem cell therapy in diabetes is investigated in depth, with a focus on its progression from bench-top research to clinical applications. Embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and adult stem cells are some of the types of stem cells that are discussed here. We highlight the distinctive characteristics of these stem cells as well as their possible treatments. Not only are preclinical studies indicating efficacy in diabetes models being investigated, but also important developments in stem cell technology, such as differentiation procedures and gene editing, are being investigated. Considerations about safety, efficacy, and ethics are taken into account during the critical evaluation of the transition to clinical trials. In addition, we discuss the difficulties and restrictions that are associated with the present forms of stem cell therapy, such as immunological rejection, tumorigenicity, and scalability. In addition, prospects and emerging trends are examined, with a particular focus on the incorporation of stem cell therapy with other new treatments such as gene therapy and tissue engineering. A full overview of the current state of stem cell therapy in diabetes is the goal of this review. Additionally, the study hopes to stimulate future research and clinical improvements in this promising field.