Endocrine Abstracts

Loss of beta cell mass in the pancreas characterises type 1 and late-stage type 2 diabetes, resulting in a reduction of insulin levels. The pancreas has a very limited regenerative potential during homeostasis. Despite its quiescent nature, recent in vivo models suggest that a certain degree of regeneration and cellular interconversion is possible in the adult pancreas. The molecular regulation of this plasticity shares remarkable similarities with pancreas beta cell differentiation during development, however, the identity of the plastic cells remains elusive. Using iPSCs and adult ductal derived organoids we have uncovered new fundamental regulatory networks and cell populations involved in pancreatic cell fate decisions during homeostasis and diabetes. The use of iPSCs- and adult- derived organoids offers novel therapeutic avenues and new strategies for modelling diabetes in a dish.