Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) control pancreatic and islet development, as well as β-cell physiology. They have an important role in the regulation of gene expression in health and in disease, including diabetes. Each phase of human pancreatic development exhibits a specific miRNA profile. The expression of multiple miRNAs is inversely correlated with the expression of involved critical genes, suggesting miRNA-mediated regulation. Modulation of miRNAs to restore β-cell mass and function is a potential strategy to treat diabetes. However, current therapeutic approaches based on the manipulation of miRNA expression are more effective in vitro than in vivo because of the difficulties with specific delivery. This chapter discusses miRNAs involved in islet and pancreas development in the context of diabetes. It also reviews their potential role in the generation of the surrogate β-cells for transplantation.