Duration is poorly characterised; most trials report 6–12 month follow-up. Some patients see baseline glucose return; others keep minor gains. Type 1 typically progresses to total beta-cell loss, so any effect may only slow decline. In Type 2, separating stem-cell contribution from diet and weight change is hard without controls. Repeated infusions are sometimes advised, implying single-course durability is not expected.
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes both involve dysfunction of insulin-producing beta cells — Type 1 through autoimmune destruction, Type 2 through insulin resistance and beta-cell exhaustion. Stem-cell research targets both: placental mesenchymal stem cells and fetal-derived stem cells are studied for their potential to differentiate toward insulin-producing cells, support pancreatic tissue, and dampen autoimmunity. In Type 1 the immune-modulating properties may restrain beta-cell attack; in Type 2 the aim is to ease insulin resistance and support residual reserve. Translating stem-cell-derived beta cells into safe, scalable, durable treatment remains a major unsolved scientific challenge, and all current clinical work is early-stage.
Am I a candidate? → · Diabetes (Type 1 & 2): full overview → · Diabetes (Type 1 & 2) cost → · Cost →
Medically reviewed by StemCellAtlas’s editorial team with Dr Polina Krasenova (Haematologist · Clinical Haematology & Integrative Oncology · 15+ yrs cell therapy) of partner clinic Stem Plus (Sofia), against ISSCR, FDA & EMA guidance. Educational information, not medical advice; figures indicative.
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