Chinese researchers have discovered that the spleen—often overlooked as a "disposable" organ—might actually be a game-changer in diabetes treatment. By transplanting specially protected islet cells into the spleen, scientists at Nanjing University and other institutions found these cells survived better there than in the liver, the usual go-to spot. This could open up a whole new way to manage type 1 diabetes.

Editor’s Note: The spleen has long been seen as non-essential, but this research flips that idea on its head. If these findings hold up, we could be looking at a safer, more effective way to treat diabetes—one that sidesteps some of the complications of current methods. It’s a reminder that even the body’s "forgotten" parts might hold big answers.