Intermittent Low-Magnitude Pressure Applied Across Macroencapsulation Devices Enables Physiological Insulin Delivery Dynamics

Numerous islet macroencapsulation techniques use diffusion to transport insulin across an immunoisolating barrier. Despite some devices reaching clinical trials, none have achieved physiological glucose control or insulin independence. Empirical evidence shows that high-density islet macroencapsulation methods cannot achieve on-demand insulin delivery and glucose regulation with diffusion alone. An additional driving force is needed. Appling a subminute pressure at physiological levels can achieve on-demand insulin delivery from macroencapsulated islets and glucose regulation. Incorporating pressure-based enhancements in macroencapsulation systems could lead to successful clinical outcomes.