Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that significantly contributes to global mortality and morbidity, characterized by the body’s inability to effectively regulate blood glucose levels. This chapter explores the various forms of diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, gestational, and prediabetes—highlighting their distinct characteristics, causes, and management approaches. Traditional diabetes treatments, while essential, often fall short of fully replicating the body’s natural insulin production. This has spurred the exploration of advanced therapies such as pancreas and islet transplantation. In recent years, stem cell research and therapy have emerged as a promising avenue, particularly with the potential for human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived β cells to restore insulin production and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy. Preclinical studies investigating MSCs demonstrate notable advancements in glucose regulation and pancreatic function, offering hope for more effective diabetes management. However, challenges such as immune rejection and ethical concerns remain significant. This chapter aims to provide updates related to the current state of stem cell research in diabetes treatment, discussing both the potential and limitations of these therapies in addressing the growing diabetes epidemic.
