Genprex and University of Pittsburgh Collaborate on Gene Therapy Research for Diabetes Treatment

Genprex, Inc., a clinical-stage gene therapy company focused on innovative solutions for diabetes and cancer, has enhanced its collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh by signing a new Sponsored Research Agreement (SRA). This agreement builds on the findings of their previous two-year research relationship aimed at developing GPX-002, a promising gene therapy intended for managing Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and Type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Ryan Confer, Genprex’s President and CEO, stated that the continuation of their studies into GPX-002 involves various animal models, enhancing their understanding of how this therapy can potentially reduce insulin dependency and improve glucose tolerance levels. Such advances bring them closer to initiating human clinical trials, which could greatly impact the lives of numerous patients.

The new SRA will focus on preclinical investigations of GPX-002, which aims to explore its effectiveness in animal models for both T1D and T2D. Previous preclinical results have shown remarkable outcomes, including significant reductions in the need for insulin, increases in c-peptide levels indicative of insulin production, and enhanced glucose tolerance when GPX-002 was administered to treated animals.

Mark Berger, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Genprex, expressed enthusiasm over the promising data derived from preclinical studies. This development indicates that GPX-002 could be a revolutionary approach to treating diabetes, especially for those who have limited options available with current therapies.

GPX-002 is designed based on a similar construct for both forms of diabetes. Utilizing an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector, it delivers the Pdx1 and MafA genes directly to the pancreas. In T1D, the therapy aims to convert alpha cells into functional beta-like cells capable of insulin production while avoiding the immune system's attack. For T2D, which doesn't involve autoimmune factors, GPX-002 is believed to restore and replenish exhausted beta cells, enhancing natural insulin response and glucose regulation.

Diabetes remains a significant public health challenge in the United States and globally. With approximately 38.4 million Americans, or 11.6% of the population, diagnosed with diabetes according to the CDC, and with projections indicating further increases in cases worldwide, innovative treatments like GPX-002 could contribute to much-needed advancements in diabetes management. In fact, the global diabetic population is expected to rise to 643 million by 2030, underscoring the urgency for effective therapeutic interventions.

Genprex’s commitment to leading advancements in gene therapy places them at the forefront of research that could redefine the treatment landscape for diabetes. The collaboration with such esteemed institutions as the University of Pittsburgh emphasizes their dedication to scientific innovation and patient care.

By providing insight into the potential of GPX-002, Genprex is not just exploring gene therapy's promise but also creating hope for millions affected by diabetes. The successful execution of these studies and subsequent clinical trials may pave the way for groundbreaking therapies that can offer a future free from the daily struggles of diabetes management.

With the potential to change lives dramatically, Genprex invites investors and stakeholders to stay informed about their progress as they continue to push forward the frontier in genetic medicine aimed at diabetes. To keep updated on new developments, interested parties are encouraged to visit the company’s official website and subscribe to their communication channels.

Topics Health)

【About Using Articles】

You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.

【About Links】

Links are free to use.