Pancreatic cells can reach the pancreas after transplantation via the placenta, mouse experiments reveal

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Researchers at the University of Tsukuba studied whether pancreatic progenitor cells transplanted into a pregnant mouse's placenta could reach and integrate into the developing fetus's pancreas. The work investigates a potential approach to delivering cells for pancreatic research and treatment.

The pancreas is a complex organ comprising multiple cell types that regulate blood glucose levels through hormones, such as insulin, and support digestion by producing digestive enzymes. Researchers at the University of Tsukuba previously developed an intraplacental transplantation method whereby pancreatic progenitor cells are injected into the placenta of a pregnant mouse and delivered to the developing fetus. However, whether transplanted cells could become incorporated into pancreatic tissue had not been demonstrated.