The treatment options for diabetes mellitus have expanded considerably in recent years. In the next decade a combined and concerted application of pharmacological, biotechnological and cell-based treatment strategies could revolutionize treatment. The decisive factor here is the interaction of fundamentally oriented and clinically active scientists in the fields of diabetology, cell biology, immunology and transplantation medicine and also of materials scientists and biotechnologists. The common goal should be the establishment of individualized and safe forms of treatment for a broad patient population. The treatment goals are based on quality of life and prolongation of life without relevant late complications.