The scientific objective of DIABETER project is to design, refine and consolidate a clinically-relevant cell therapeutic approach to cure diabetic autoimmunity by targeted delivery of apoptotic signals using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) as vehicles.

The significance of this new therapy lies in its innovative nature, the use of already approved therapeutic tools, and the potential transfer into the clinic for further development.

The specific aims designed to accomplish the scientific objective are:

Specific aim1: Arrest of inflammatory insulitis by immunomodulation with killer MSC;

Specific aim 2: Abrogation of autoimmunity using repeated killer MSC infusions;

Specific aim 3: Indefinite restoration of self-tolerance through hematopoietic chimerism.