| abstract |
Isolated populations of committed mesenchymal cells are disclosed that can proliferate in vitro, and, under appropriate conditions, can differentiate into pancreatic endocrine cells. Committed mesenchymal cells can undergo a mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition to form epithelial cell clusters, which can be transplanted into a recipient, such as a subject with diabetes. Tissue culture media is disclosed that is of use for expanding and differentiating committed mesenchymal cells. Methods for identifying agents of use in treating diabetes are also provided. |