Alternatives to immunosuppressive drugs in human islet transplantation.

Although intensive insulin therapy has resulted in improved metabolic control and decreases in the incidence of complications, the occurrence of severe hypoglycemia remains an issue, as does the continued potential for complications. Islet transplantation, a promising treatment for type I diabetes, has been shown to improve blood sugar levels and decrease or even abrogate the incidence of hypoglycemia. The lack of tissue availability and the toxic effects of immunosuppressants, however, limit the application of islet transplantation as a cure for diabetes. This article discusses possible alternatives to immunosuppressive drugs in human islet transplantations.