Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is an incurable genetic disease that causes tumor formation in various organs. In the kidney, the growth of renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs) can lead to loss of renal function and premature death caused by the spontaneous rupture of vascular aneurysms. For the last three decades, our understanding of AML biology has been greatly limited by the lack of appropriate experimental models. However, in a new paper published in Nature Communications, researchers from the lab of Dario Lemos, HSCI Affiliate Faculty, report a landmark bioengineering method for modelling the renal manifestations of this rare disease, laying the groundwork for the testing of new therapies.... Read more about New Bioengineering Approach Replicates Rare Kidney Tumor

Promising early results show that longstanding Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) research may have paved the way for a breakthrough treatment of Type 1 diabetes. Utilizing research from the Melton Lab, Vertex Pharmaceuticals has developed VX-880, an investigational stem cell-derived, fully differentiated pancreatic islet cell replacement therapy for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D). In conjunction with immunosuppressive therapy, VX-880 produced robust restoration of islet cell function on Day 90 in the first patient in its Phase 1/2 clinical trial.... Read more about A new therapy for treating Type 1 diabetes

A Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) led collaboration developed a new macroencapsulation device (MED) that protects the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas and enhances their survival with improved nutrient supply. ... Read more about Bioartificial device offers potential for treatment of Type 1 diabetes