STEM CELLS IN THE TREATMENT OF DIABETES MELLITUS: CURRENT PERSPECTIVES AND FUTURE CHALLENGES IN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disease with high global prevalence, poses a significant challenge to public health, impacting patients' quality of life and longevity. The inability to produce or resistance to insulin action are the etiopathogenic pillars, culminating in hyperglycemia and micro and macrovascular complications. Current therapeutic approaches, although effective in glycemic control, do not promote a cure and often prove insufficient to prevent the long-term progression of complications. In this scenario, regenerative medicine, particularly the use of stem cells, emerges as a promising strategy to restore pancreatic β-cell function or modulate the immune response. This review addresses the advances and challenges in applying different types of stem cells in diabetes treatment, including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Proposed mechanisms of action, results from preclinical and clinical studies, and persistent regulatory and safety barriers will be discussed. The current article sought to synthesize current knowledge on the therapeutic potential of stem cells, highlighting the need for in-depth research to translate laboratory success into effective and safe clinical applications.