Umbilical cord stem cells as regenerative therapy: advances in the treatment of type I diabetes

Type I diabetes mellitus was presented as an autoimmune disease that destroyed the β cells of the pancreas, generating an insulin deficit and metabolic complications. Although traditional insulin treatment was necessary, it failed to stop the progression of the disease. Regenerative medicine offered new alternatives, including the use of stem cells derived from the umbilical cord. These cells showed an ability to differentiate into pancreatic cells and modulate the immune system, which helped to improve glycaemic control and reduce dependence on exogenous insulin. Clinical studies confirmed that this therapy was safe, well-tolerated and ethically acceptable, making it a promising alternative in the treatment of T1D.