A type 2 diabetic was cured for the first time in recorded history

Chinese medical professionals have shared a success story of treating a 59 year mans diabetes through stem cell therapy as detailed in the publication Cell Discovery.

The patient received a stem cell transplant in 2021. Has been managing his blood sugar levels without medication since 2022. Prior, to this treatment he had been dealing with type 2 diabetes for 25 years. Had lost most of his insulin producing cells.

Normally individuals with this condition require insulin injections. Are prone to complications affecting the nerves, kidneys and heart.

In laboratory settings scientists were able to develop cells from stem cells, which possess the ability to transform into different types of cells such as nerve cells, muscle cells and kidney cells.

The fate of a stem cell is determined by the combination of substances it encounters. In this study researchers utilized a mix to prompt the formation of pancreatic cells.

The case shared by the researchers hints at the potential, for restoring the bodys natural blood sugar regulation mechanisms without requiring lifestyle changes. However additional research is necessary to confirm these results.

The authors note that their approach is unlikely to benefit people with type 1 diabetes, as their immune system attacks the pancreas, which would likely lead to the destruction of the newly transplanted cells.

This study represents a significant advancement for the approximately half a billion people suffering from diabetes, the ninth leading cause of death globally.