METHODS OF GENERATING EXPANDED AND RE-DIFFERENTIATED ADULT ISLET BETA CELLS FOR USE IN THE TREATMENT OF DIABETES

摘要

A method of increasing insulin content in adult islet beta cells is disclosed. The method comprises contacting the adult islet beta cells with an agent capable of down-regulating activity and/or expression of at least one component participating in a NOTCH pathway, the component being up-regulated in beta cell dedifferentiation above a predetermined threshold, thereby increasing the insulin content in adult islet beta cells. Methods of labeling dedifferentiated adult islet beta cells are also disclosed. Cell populations generated using the methods of the present invention and uses thereof are also disclosed.