Diabetes develops when the pancreas is unable to make enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels under control. This occurs due to a reduction or loss of the cells that make insulin in the pancreas. These cells are known as beta cells. Finding a safe and effective way to regrow or regenerate these cells could lead to new treatments, or even a cure, for people living with diabetes.
Research over the last 20 years has shown that this may be possible. For example, studies in animals have shown that beta cells can multiply and make copies of themselves. They’ve also shown that in the absence of beta cells, neighboring hormone-producing cells in the pancreas called alpha and delta cells can sometimes change their identity and start producing insulin just like beta cells.
More recently, studies have identified small molecules that can trigger the division of human beta cells. Some research also suggests that diabetes drugs such as semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic) may work in combination with these molecules to further promote the growth of beta cells.
There is still lots to understand about regenerating beta cells. It is likely that a combination of different approaches might be required to get human beta cells to regrow and regenerate enough to treat or even cure diabetes.
About the author
Tania Bakshi
Tania Bakshi is a graduate student in the Experimental Medicine program at the University of British Columbia. Her research focuses on developing new therapies to restore and protect insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, with the goal of potentially reversing diabetes. Her work is driven by both scientific curiosity and her personal experience living with Type 1 Diabetes.