Type 1 diabetes affects millions of people and is caused by autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Transplantation of pancreatic islets remains the only established cell-based approach capable of restoring endogenous insulin production and, in some patients, achieving insulin independence. Adoption has been limited by a severe shortage of donor pancreases and the loss of transplanted islets due to poor engraftment.

The newly issued patent addresses the challenge by describing the use of fibroblasts to improve the microenvironment for transplanted islets. The patented methods encompass compositions and therapeutic approaches designed to increase islet viability following transplantation. Fibroblasts are known to produce extracellular matrix proteins, angiogenic factors, and trophic signals that may improve vascularization, reduce cell stress, and enhance survival of transplanted tissues.