What we know so far:
The conversation about stem cells for diabetes took a turn in 2024. Academic teams in China reported two human cases: one in type 1 and one in type 2. Both patients were able to discontinue insulin during follow-up after receiving lab-grown islets of Langerhans. This is a real breakthrough. However, the evidence remains limited and requires further testing with large sample sizes and multiple centers.

How it happened in type 1:
An adult woman with type 1 diabetes received islets derived from her own reprogrammed cells. The implant was performed in a site with good blood flow. She discontinued insulin after 75 days. She maintained stable glycemic control for one year, according to clinical follow-up. This case is part of an early-stage trial focused on safety and feasibility. The efficacy signal is clear, although it is still a small study with only one patient.