Harnessing the pancreatic stem cell

• Published in: Endocrinology and metabolism clinics of North America Vol. 39; no. 4; p. 763
• Main Authors: Taylor-Fishwick, David A, Pittenger, Gary L
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.12.2010
• Subjects: Animals; Cell Differentiation - physiology; Embryonic Development - physiology; Embryonic Stem Cells - physiology; Female; Humans; Insulin-Secreting Cells - cytology; Insulin-Secreting Cells - physiology; Models, Biological; Pancreas - embryology; Pancreas - growth & development; Pancreas - physiology; Pregnancy; Regenerative Medicine - methods; Regenerative Medicine - trends
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2010.08.008

Building on the elaborate research studies that have helped map out key decision points in the process of pancreas development, reprogramming of pluripotent embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells offers the possibility of overcoming restrictions on tissue supply associated with transplantation of donor islets. In a healthy pancreas, the beta-cell mass can exhibit significant plasticity, as reflected in the normal adaptive response in beta-cell mass to offset the metabolic challenge associated with pregnancy and obesity. In this article, alternative strategies and potential sources of pancreatic stem cells are considered.