Human Beta Cells Come from Multiple Progenitors
Author Information
Author(s): Scharfmann Raphaël, Xiao Xiangwei, Heimberg Harry, Mallet Jacques, Ravassard Philippe
Primary Institution: University Paris-Descartes, Faculty of Medicine, INSERM, Necker Hospital
Hypothesis
Do beta cells in human islets originate from multiple progenitors?
Conclusion
Beta cells in a human islet are derived from multiple progenitors, as shown by the presence of both labeled and unlabeled cells.
Supporting Evidence
- The study developed a unique model to analyze human pancreatic development.
- Both GFP-positive and GFP-negative beta cells were found within single islets.
- The findings suggest that human islet beta cells are derived from more than one progenitor.
Takeaway
This study shows that the cells that make up human insulin-producing islets come from different starting cells, not just one type.
Methodology
The study used a model combining ex vivo organogenesis from human fetal pancreatic tissue and lentivirus-mediated gene transfer to analyze human islet formation.
Limitations
The study is limited by the use of a specific model and the reliance on fetal tissue, which may not fully represent adult human islet development.
Participant Demographics
Human fetal pancreases were used, obtained from elective terminations between 9 and 11 weeks of development.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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