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3D-Printed Islets Offer New Hope for Insulin-Free Diabetes Treatment

— 2025-07-09

3D-Printed Islets Offer New Hope for Insulin-Free Diabetes Treatment

– Bio-printed pancreatic tissue responds to glucose in lab tests –
– A minimally invasive implant designed to overcome limitations of traditional islet transplantation –

Researchers at Wake Forest School of Medicine in the United States have developed functional pancreatic islets using 3D bioprinting technology, offering new potential for treating type 1 diabetes without insulin injections. The findings will be presented at the European Society for Organ Transplantation (ESOT) congress in London on July 30.

Functional insulin response observed in lab-grown islets

To produce the islets, scientists used a bioink made of decellularized human pancreatic extracellular matrix and alginate. The 3D-printed structures featured a porous design that allows oxygen and nutrient flow. These artificial islets remained viable for up to three weeks and showed insulin secretion in response to glucose in vitro. Notably, their glucose sensitivity improved over time.

Subcutaneous implantation offers new approach

Unlike traditional islet transplants, which are typically placed in the liver, these printed islets are designed for subcutaneous implantation. This method requires only local anesthesia and a small incision. In case of complications, the implant can be easily removed or replaced, offering a safer and more convenient option.

Toward personalized diabetes therapy

Lead researcher Dr. Quentin Ferry commented, “These bio-printed human cell–based islets demonstrate promising functional results and represent a major step toward treating diabetes without insulin injections.”

Animal testing is currently underway, and the team is also developing long-term storage methods to support eventual clinical use.

Suggested Visuals

3D bioprinter printing islet structures
Microscope images of islet activity or insulin secretion graphs
Diagram of subcutaneous implantation procedure
Infographic showing progression: diabetes → islet failure → bio-printing → glucose control

Disclaimer: This article reports on preclinical research. The described technology is not yet approved for clinical use and requires further trials and regulatory review.