February 21st 2025

Lyon, France – In a groundbreaking medical first, a Lyon-based consortium has successfully executed Europe’s first fully automated transplant of insulin-producing islet cells. This pioneering procedure marks a significant milestone in the treatment of Type 1 diabetes, offering renewed hope to millions worldwide.

A Paradigm Shift in Diabetes Management

The innovative procedure combines robotic surgery with state-of-the-art immunosuppression protocols to transplant insulin-producing cells with unprecedented precision. Key aspects of the breakthrough include:

• Automated Pancreas Digestion: Utilizing controlled collagenase perfusion at an optimal 37°C
• Islet Purification: Achieved through continuous density gradient centrifugation
• AI-Driven Quality Control: Microscopy systems assessing over 200 cells per second for rapid, accurate validation
   

These steps ensure a high yield of viable islet cells, with post-procedure viability reaching an impressive 95%.

Clinical Outcomes Redefining Standards

The clinical trial results have been nothing short of transformative:

• Insulin Independence: 15 out of 18 patients achieved sustained insulin independence at the one-year mark
• Dramatic Glycemic Improvements: Median HbA1c levels dropped from 8.7% to 5.9%
• Enhanced Safety Profile: No severe hypoglycemia events were recorded post-transplant
   

“This automated approach significantly reduces human error, marking a new standard in cell therapy,” explains lead surgeon Dr. Luc Mercier. Such outcomes not only validate the efficacy of the procedure but also signal a new era in diabetes treatment.

Manufacturing Sovereignty and Future Prospects

France’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified by its €200 million investment in the GRAGIL Network, which ensures domestic production of cell therapies in state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities. With a production capacity poised to exceed 300 transplants annually by 2025, the future of Type 1 diabetes management looks remarkably promising.

A Call to International Buyers

For global healthcare professionals and decision-makers, this breakthrough offers a compelling opportunity to engage with France’s dynamic MedTech landscape. Explore how partnering with French innovators can elevate your treatment offerings and improve patient outcomes worldwide. Connect with leading French vendors on our Marketplace and be part of the revolution in diabetes care.