IN-VIVO TRANSPLANTATION
At IsletNexus, we take an advanced approach to stem cell-based diabetes therapy through in vivo transplantation studies in animal models. Our aim is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of stem cell-derived islets in restoring glucose regulation in diabetic organisms.
How We Do It:
Diabetes Induction in Mice
We chemically induce diabetes in mice using agents like streptozotocin (STZ), which selectively destroys native pancreatic beta cells. This prepares the model for testing the efficacy of our transplanted islet cells.
Transplantation Sites
Our lab evaluates various transplantation sites to determine optimal graft survival and insulin response. These include:Gluteus maximus muscle
Kidney capsule
Liver (via portal vein)
These sites are chosen for their accessibility, vascularity, and ability to support graft integration.
Islet Function Assessment
To assess the functionality of transplanted islets, we perform Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion (GSIS) assays both before and after transplantation. This allows us to verify the insulin-secreting capacity and viability of our islet preparations under dynamic glucose conditions.
Why This Matters:
By transplanting stem cell-derived islets into various anatomical sites and validating their insulin responsiveness with GSIS, we simulate future clinical applications and build a foundation for human-scale personalized therapies. These in vivo studies provide crucial evidence on the long-term functionality and safety of our differentiated islet grafts.
