Gene-Modified Dual-Factor Stem Cell Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes: A Global First from Beijing JiYuan Biotech

After more than a decade of independent research and development, Beijing Jiyuan Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Jiyuan Biotechnology”), a company based in Shunyi District, has successfully developed a stem cell “dual-factor” therapy, a world-first innovation. Currently, this therapy has been implemented at the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone in Hainan for clinical translation, earning it acclaim within the industry as “reshaping the paradigm of diabetes treatment.”

Staff discuss the progress of project implementation.

According to statistics, the number of patients with type 2 diabetes in China has exceeded 140 million. Traditional treatment methods can only control blood glucose levels and are difficult to reverse the course of the disease. Now, Jiyuan Biotechnology brings new hope for treatment to patients.

Staff members are operating in the GMP laboratory.

In late March this year, relevant authorities in the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone issued an approval permitting Jiyuan Biotechnology, in collaboration with Ruijin Hospital Hainan Hospital (Hainan Boao Research Hospital) affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, to carry out the translational application of a novel biomedical technology: “an adipose-derived stem cell injection with high co-expression of human GLP-1 and FGF21.” The treatment is intended for patients aged 18 to 70 years with moderate-to-severe type 2 diabetes who have responded poorly to conventional therapies. Leveraging local preferential medical policies, this China-originated technology has successfully transitioned from the laboratory into real-world clinical practice.

Staff conduct experiments.

“This therapy leverages the core innovation of ‘genetic modification + dual-factor synergy,’ combining two functional factors, GLP-1 and FGF21, with adipose-derived stem cells to create a ‘living cell micro-factory’ capable of long-term efficacy,” explained Xue Binghua, Director and Deputy General Manager of Jiyuan Biotechnology. “GLP-1 primarily acts on the pancreatic islets and the central nervous system, promoting insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon release; FGF21 focuses on improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues such as the liver and adipose tissue, thereby regulating lipid metabolism and energy balance. Through their synergistic action, these factors systematically correct the complex metabolic disturbances associated with type 2 diabetes across multiple levels—including energy intake, insulin secretion, and peripheral utilization—thereby ameliorating diabetic complications.”

The technological innovation of this product is regarded as the "ceiling" level within the industry. It is the world’s first genetically engineered mesenchymal stem cell that combines peptide drugs with mesenchymal stem cells. Currently, it remains at the forefront globally and is the only domestic product of its kind to have advanced to the registrational clinical trial stage.

Ultra-low Temperature Storage.

“The development of a new stem cell drug typically takes an average of 10 to 15 years. Through a decade of dedicated effort, we have achieved clinical implementation today. Moving forward, we will continue to advance the accumulation of clinical data, enabling more patients to benefit from China’s original achievements in regenerative medicine,” stated Xue Binghua.

Jiyuan Biotechnology is a high-tech enterprise located in the Airport Economic Zone of Capital International Airport, holding numerous domestic and international invention patents, with its technological strength firmly ranked among the global first tier. The company has been deeply engaged for many years in the field of gene-modified stem cell new drugs, actively participating in national-level scientific research projects and leading the promotion of industry standard development.

A Decade of Dedication, Bearing Fruit. From microscopic exploration in the Shunyi laboratory to clinical applications in Boao Lecheng, this Shunyi-based enterprise is redefining diabetes treatment with cutting-edge technology and driving high-quality regional development through innovation.

Source: Beijing Hao

Author: Official Release from Shunyi, Beijing