Stem Cell Therapy May End Insulin for Type 1 Diabetics
A new stem cell therapy by Vertex helped 83% of type 1 diabetics eliminate insulin use—marking a potential paradigm shift in diabetes treatment.
Headline
Stem Cell Therapy May End Insulin for Type 1 Diabetics
Summary
Vertex’s off-the-shelf stem cell treatment zimislecel helped 83% of trial participants with type 1 diabetes achieve insulin independence after one year.
All patients showed improved glycemic control, raising hopes for a functional cure.
Key Takeaways
- 83% insulin-free: 10 of 12 patients no longer needed insulin after 12 months.
- Single infusion: Zimislecel is delivered once via liver portal vein.
- FDA review next: Phase 3 trials are ongoing, with regulatory filings expected in 2026.
Why It Matters
This could mark the biggest shift in diabetes treatment in decades. Rather than managing symptoms, zimislecel targets the root cause—potentially offering a “functional cure” for patients with severe type 1 diabetes.
Source Link
Phase 3 Trial of Vertex’s Islet Cell Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes Under Way
Zimislecel is an allogeneic stem cell-derived islet cell therapy that could eliminate the need for insulin in those who have type 1 diabetes. Regulatory submissions are expected in 2026, and if approved, would be the second cell therapy for type 1 diabetes.
Denise Myshko
Vertex’s Phase 3 trial of zimislecel, a stem cell-derived islet therapy for type 1 diabetes, could potentially eliminate insulin dependence in severe cases.
