Validation of the biocompatibility of a cell transplantation device for diabetes treatment

by Carolin Heller.

Diabetes mellitus, affecting over 537 million people globally, is a major public health challenge, with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) comprising about 10% of cases. T1D, an autoimmune condition destroying insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells, necessitates lifelong insulin therapy, which, while effective in managing blood glucose, cannot fully mimic natural hormonal regulation. Pancreatic islet transplantation offers a more physiological solution but is limited by donor shortages and immunosuppression needs. This project explores an encapsulation device coated with Heparin-starPEG hydrogels to protect human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived insulin-producing cells from immune rejection and fibrosis, enhancing biocompatibility and vascularization for T1D treatment.

Key milestones included developing a homogeneous hydrogel coating for the device, evaluated via mesh-supported techniques after initial spraying methods failed, and assessing biocompatibility in a rat model over one and four weeks, despite challenges like animal self-explantation requiring experiment repetition. Advanced imaging and machine learning analysis refined collagen detection, while the next phase will test hiPSC-derived islet function in diabetic rats over three months. Business efforts involved pitches at events like SPRIND Pitch Day and TUD excite Summer School, alongside a patent in nationalization and a manuscript ready for Advanced Healthcare Materials. Funding applications, including a pending Saxony Validation Grant, support future steps.