Bioengineering of the implantable vascularized endocrine constructs for insulin delivery suitable for clinical upscaling

Abstract

Beta cell replacement therapy for type 1 diabetes is hindered by poor graft survival and suboptimal function, largely due to inadequate vascularization and lack of supportive microenvironment. To address these challenges, we developed a clinically scalable, extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimetic hydrogel, termed Amniogel, derived from human amniotic membrane via streamlined, clinically compliant process. Co-encapsulation of pancreatic islets with blood outgrowth endothelial cells (BOECs) within Amniogel facilitated the formation of prevascularized endocrine constructs (VECs). These constructs demonstrated enhanced {beta}-cell viability and function through ECM-bound pro-survival signals, rapid self-assembly of perfusable endothelial networks enabling efficient glucose sensing, and deposition of laminin-rich basement membranes enhancing {beta}-cell coupling and insulin secretion kinetics. In preclinical diabetic mouse models, VECs rapidly integrated with the host vasculature and provided sustained glycemic control when implanted subcutaneously. This integrative approach, combining a scalable, cost-effective biological scaffold with autologous vascularization potential, represents a significant advancement toward durable and clinically translatable {beta}-cell replacement therapies for T1DM. One Sentence SummaryA clinically scalable, biological hydrogel based vascularized endocrine constructs show sustained diabetes reversal.