Polysaccharide-based hydrogel scaffolds for the regeneration of pancreatic beta cells to treat diabetes

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disease leading to the degeneration of beta cells of the pancreas. Beta islet transplantation seems to be a promising strategy for the treatment of the disease. In this technology, the damaged beta cells are replaced by new cells through an invasive procedure that is complex and associated with complicated manifestations. The complications, side effects, and clinical manifestations lead to the suppression of the immune response for a longer period of time. To overcome these complications, a biomaterial-based new technology is being developed and has proven to be effective. Biomaterial-assisted islet transplantation inserts desired beta cells inside the biomaterial-based hydrogels, which are then implanted into the patient, overcoming the challenges. Hydrogels are the best choice among all biomaterials because of their extracellular matrix-like properties. In this chapter, we aim to present a brief review of the 3D hydrogels encapsulated with beta cells, the modifications to improve the viability of the embedded cells, and their biomedical applications. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.