The present invention relates to a method for treating a subject having or at risk of a diabetes-related disorder. In a preferred embodiment, the method involves increasing the level or activity of Hypoxia Induced Factor 1 (HIF-1 α) in pancreatic-β-cells or insulin-sensitive tissues in the subject by administering to the subject an inhibitor of a protein that decreases the level or activity of HIF-1α. The present invention also relates to a method of transplanting pancreatic islet cells in a subject.
