Cure Research/June 26, 2026/2 min read

Pancreatic Cell Transplants Show Promise in Early Trial—But This Isn't a Cure

Researchers are testing a procedure that transplants insulin-producing cells into the liver, with some patients reducing or stopping insulin injections. Early results are encouraging, but significant hurdles remain.

Community video — lay discussion, not peer-reviewed research

Evidence label explains the kind of source behind this article (for example peer-reviewed literature vs community video). It is not medical advice.

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Key takeaways

A small trial is investigating pancreatic islet cell transplants—cells that produce insulin—placed directly into the liver
Some trial participants have reduced their insulin dependence, though the procedure is not a cure
The transplant is performed as a minimally invasive procedure using a catheter and local anesthesia
Side effects from the medications needed to prevent transplant rejection have limited wider availability of this approach
Researchers emphasize this is early-stage work with much more research needed

How the Procedure Works

Researchers are testing a transplant procedure in which pancreatic islet cells—the cells that produce insulin—are isolated from deceased organ donors and infused directly into a patient's liver. An interventional radiologist uses a small catheter placed through the skin under local anesthesia to deliver the cells, making it a minimally invasive procedure.

Early Trial Results

In an early trial, some patients who received the transplant have been able to reduce or stop taking insulin injections. Participants report improved quality of life and greater freedom in daily activities. However, researchers stress that while these results are promising, this approach does not cure Type 1 diabetes.

The Challenge: Side Effects

A major obstacle to offering this procedure more widely is the side effects associated with the medications patients must take to prevent their immune system from rejecting the transplanted cells. These immunosuppressive medications can cause significant adverse effects, which is why the procedure remains limited to research trials at this stage.

What's Next

Researchers view this work as an important beginning in exploring new approaches to help people with Type 1 diabetes reduce their dependence on insulin injections. Much more research is needed to improve the procedure, reduce medication side effects, and determine which patients might benefit most.

Evidence label

Source: YouTube community video. Evidence type: Community video — lay discussion, not peer-reviewed research. Type1Cure is an information and intelligence hub, not a medical advice service. This article summarizes published research and does not provide diagnosis, treatment, or personal medical guidance. Always talk to your own care team before changing anything about your Type 1 diabetes management.

Type1Cure is an information and intelligence hub, not a medical advice service. This article summarizes published research and does not provide diagnosis, treatment, or personal medical guidance. Always talk to your own care team before changing anything about your Type 1 diabetes management.

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