Progress and application of adipose-derived stem cells in the treatment of diabetes and its complications

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a serious chronic metabolic disease that can lead to many serious complications, such as cardiovascular disease, retinopathy, neuropathy, and kidney disease. Once diagnosed with diabetes, patients need to take oral hypoglycemic drugs or use insulin to control blood sugar and slow down the progression of the disease. This has a significant impact on the daily life of patients, requiring constant monitoring of the side effects of medication. It also imposes a heavy financial burden on individuals, their families, and even society as a whole. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have recently become an emerging therapeutic modality for DM and its complications. ADSCs can improve insulin sensitivity and enhance insulin secretion through various pathways, thereby alleviating diabetes and its complications. Additionally, ADSCs can promote tissue regeneration, inhibit inflammatory reactions, and reduce tissue damage and cell apoptosis. The potential mechanisms of ADSC therapy for DM and its complications are numerous, and its extensive regenerative and differentiation ability, as well as its role in regulating the immune system and metabolic function, make it a powerful tool in the treatment of DM. Although this technology is still in the early stages, many studies have already proven its safety and effectiveness, providing new treatment options for patients with DM or its complications. Although based on current research, ADSCs have achieved some results in animal experiments and clinical trials for the treatment of DM, further clinical trials are still needed before they can be applied in a clinical setting.

Keywords: Adipose-derived stem cells; Cell therapy; Complications; Diabetes mellitus; Diabetic wounds; Nephropathy; Retinopathy.

Fig. 1

The application and mechanism of ADSCs in Diabetes Mellitus. ADSCs adipose-derived stem cells, IPCs insulin-producing cells. All of the elements in the diagram were provided by Figdraw (http://www.fgdraw.com)

Fig. 2

The application and mechanism of ADSCs in the complications of Diabetes Mellitus. ADSCs adipose-derived stem cells. All of the elements in the diagram were provided by Figdraw (http://www.fgdraw.com)