A multi-centre study of belatacept and sirolimus for islet transplantation.
DiabetologiaAug 17, 2026 (epub)
Natasha M Rogers, Min Hu, Elvira Jimenez-Vera et al.
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In 30 seconds
This phase II, multi-centre clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of belatacept and sirolimus (bela/siro) in islet transplantation for type 1 diabetes. Among nine participants treated with bela/siro, 89% achieved freedom from hypoglycaemia at 12 months, compared to 52% in the tacrolimus/mycophenolate mofetil (tac/MMF) group of 24 participants.
Key findings
- 89% of participants receiving bela/siro achieved freedom from hypoglycaemia compared to 52% with tac/MMF.
- Both treatment groups showed reduced HbA1c, HYPO score, and insulin requirements.
- Renal function remained unchanged in the bela/siro group, unlike in the tac/MMF group.
- Higher proportions of CD4 + FOXP3 + regulatory T cells were observed in the bela/siro group.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that belatacept and sirolimus may offer a beneficial alternative to traditional immunosuppressive therapies in islet transplantation, potentially improving patient outcomes while minimizing renal side effects.