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Cover image comparing type 1 and type 2 diabetes stem cell care

Type 1 vs type 2 diabetes: why the stem cell approach differs

Autoimmune beta-cell loss versus insulin resistance

Quick answer

Type 1 diabetes is autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells; type 2 combines insulin resistance with declining beta-cell function. The cell therapy goals differ accordingly: immune modulation and protection of residual beta cells in type 1, versus lowering inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity in type 2.

Key facts

Type 1
Autoimmune beta-cell loss
Type 2
Insulin resistance + beta-cell decline
Residual function marker
C-peptide
Never do
Stop insulin on your own

Type 1: protecting residual beta cells

In type 1 the decisive question is whether beta cells remain. Newly diagnosed patients with detectable C-peptide are the group research focuses on, because there is still something to protect rather than rebuild from zero.

Type 2: inflammation and insulin resistance

In type 2, low-grade inflammation from visceral fat drives insulin resistance. The MSC rationale is to reduce those inflammatory signals, which may show up as a modest HbA1c improvement and lower medication needs in some patients.

Never stop insulin

It must be said plainly: no cell therapy lets a type 1 patient safely stop insulin. Self-discontinuation risks diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening emergency.

Frequently asked questions

  • Can stem cells cure diabetes?

    There is no evidence of cure; the current goal is better disease control.

  • What tests come first?

    HbA1c, C-peptide, kidney function and screening for eye, foot and cardiac complications.

  • What is Type 1 vs type 2 diabetes: why the stem cell approach differs?

    Type 1 diabetes is autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells; type 2 combines insulin resistance with declining beta-cell function. The cell therapy goals differ accordingly: immune modulation and protection of residual beta cells in type 1, versus lowering inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity in type 2.

  • Type 1 vs type 2 diabetes: why the stem cell approach differs: what is the type 1?

    Type 1: Autoimmune beta-cell loss

Medical cautions

5 points • reviewed 2026-08-28

Expand
  • This article is educational information only — not a diagnosis, prescription, or personal medical advice.
  • Outcomes vary by person, depending on age, underlying conditions, current medication, and the treating doctor's technique.
  • Consult a licensed physician and verify the clinic's licence before deciding on any treatment.
  • Some treatments (certain stem cell therapies in particular) are regulated differently by country — check Thai and Korean rules before travelling.
  • Prices, packages, and service details can change — confirm directly with the provider before paying.

Reviewed and last updated: 2026-08-28

References and sources

10 sources • every claim is traceable

Expand
  1. 1. EHL Bio — company introduction

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/company/about/

  2. 2. EHL Bio — company history

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/company/history/

  3. 3. EHL Bio — GMP centre

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/rd/gmp/

  4. 4. EHL Bio — stem cell therapeutics pipeline

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/rd/institute/

  5. 5. EHL Bio — patents and research papers

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/rd/patent/

  6. 6. EHL Bio — EHL-STEM conditioned media

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/conditioned/

  7. 7. EHL Bio — immune cells

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/immune_cell/

  8. 8. EHL Bio — target diseases

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/cure/index/

  9. 9. EHL Bio — locations and contact

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/company/contact/

  10. 10. Original article on khunkim.com (pre-migration)

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr

Browse the full reference library →

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Last updated: 2026-08-28 · This content is for information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified doctor before making treatment decisions.

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