Figure 1. β cell replacement from human pluripotent stem cell sources.

Currently pursued approaches include implantation of in vitro–generated pancreatic progenitor cells or β-like cells. In vitro–produced pancreatic progenitor cells differentiate into β cells within 16 weeks after implantation. Cell delivery in an encapsulation device prevents immune cells from contacting implanted cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), while allowing free exchange of nutrients and hormones, including oxygen, glucose, and insulin. Precursors to β cells are depicted in yellow and insulin-producing cells in green.