Induction of Nestin Early Expression as a Hallmark for Mesenchymal Stem Cells Expression of PDX-1 as a Pre-disposing Factor for Their Conversion into Insulin Producing Cells.

Diabetes constitutes a worldwide epidemic that affects all ethnic groups. Cell therapy is one of the best alternatives of treatment, by providing an effective way to regenerate insulin-producing cells lost during the course of the disease, but many issues remain to be solved. Several groups have been working in the development of a protocol capable of differentiating Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) into physiologically sound Insulin Producing Cells (IPCs).