Induction of insulin-producing cells from umbilical cord blood-derived stromal cells by activation of the c-Met/HGF axis.

Efficient and effective therapies are required for diabetes mellitus. The use of adult stem cells for treating diabetes represents a major focus of current research. We have attempted to differentiate adult stem cells produced from umbilical cord blood-derived stromal cells into insulin-producing cells (IPCs). By activating the c-Met/HGF axis through temporal hypoxia treatment and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) supplementation, our protocol resulted in the differentiation of cells into functional pancreatic endocrine cells with increased viability. Glucose stimulation test results showed that significantly greater amounts of C-peptide and insulin were released from the differentiated cells than from undifferentiated cells. These IPCs were capable of reversing the hyperglycemia of diabetic mice. In conclusion, targeting the c-Met/HGF axis can be considered an effective and efficient means of obtaining IPCs from adult stem cells.