Here we summarize recent developments for differentiating and maturing stem cell-derived beta (SC-beta) cells in vitro. Using a multi-faceted strategy of targeting certain signal transduction pathways and the state of the actin cytoskeleton, we can generate SC-beta cells with enhanced function. This includes displaying first and second phase insulin secretion responses to high glucose and rapidly reversing severe pre-existing diabetes in mice, maintaining this diabetes reversal for over half a year. Of particular note, by controlling the microenvironment during differentiation, the protocol is effective across a large number of cell lines, even lines derived from patients with diabetes. We expect advances in SC-beta cell technology to better enable translation to a new diabetes cell replacement therapy.
Learn the latest approaches for the differentiation and maturation and the assessment of SC-beta cells
