#United States #Chicago #diabetes research #Breakthrough T1D #ADA Scientific Sessions

Breakthrough T1D and the ADA Scientific Sessions

This month, Breakthrough T1D, which was previously known as JDRF, made a significant impact at the American Diabetes Association's (ADA) 85th Scientific Sessions, held from June 20 to 23 in Chicago, Illinois. As a prominent global organization committed to type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy, Breakthrough T1D gathered with esteemed researchers and healthcare professionals during one of the largest diabetes conferences worldwide.

At the forefront of this year's conference was a series of presentations from Breakthrough T1D scientists and funded researchers. They shared vital findings and facilitated discussions aimed at enhancing the lives of those affected by T1D and moving closer to potential cures. The association between Breakthrough T1D and the ADA has a long history; since its inception in the 1970s, Breakthrough T1D has significantly contributed to advancing diabetes research presented at this annual event.

Aaron Kowalski, Ph.D., CEO of Breakthrough T1D, emphasized the importance of this conference by stating, "The American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions highlights the latest advancements in type 1 diabetes research and treatments from the brightest minds in the field and demonstrates the tremendous progress being made on the path to cures for the disease." He expressed optimism, citing the collective innovation and commitment showcased at the conference, stating that Breakthrough T1D remains dedicated to supporting the scientists and researchers who contribute critical progress in T1D research.

During the sessions, Breakthrough T1D leaders participated in various presentations and panel discussions, addressing key topics within their mission and spotlighting research advancements relevant to the T1D community. Highlights included discussions led by:

• - Sanjoy Dutta, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer, who focused on cell therapies.
• - Jonathan Rosen, Ph.D., Research Director, who discussed cardiovascular complications associated with T1D.
• - Anastasia Albanese-O'Neill, Ph.D., APRN, CDCES, Vice President of Medical Affairs, who participated in a panel concerning women in diabetes professions.
• - Courtney Ackeifi, Ph.D., Research Scientist, who presented insights from the symposium on ADJUnct Semaglutide Treatment in Type 1 Diabetes (ADJUST-T1D) trial outcomes.

The conference also featured poster sessions and discussions surrounding critical health policy issues in T1D. These discussions emphasized the necessity of incorporating patient feedback and boosting clinical trial participation. Furthermore, the promise of cell therapies, as well as the significance of the Special Diabetes Program—a federally funded initiative allocating $160 million each year for T1D research—were major talking points.

One of the conference's main highlights included:
1. Vertex Pharmaceuticals presented thrilling updates regarding their ongoing phase I/II clinical trial of zimislecel (VX-880), a manufactured islet cell therapy requiring immunosuppression. Remarkably, 100% of participants who received the full treatment no longer experienced severe hypoglycemic events, achieving remarkable improvements in blood glucose regulation over 12 months.
2. Sana Biotechnology reported on an individual who underwent a transplant of gene-edited deceased donor islets utilizing their Hypoimmune (HIP) technology. This cutting-edge technique allows cells to evade destruction by the immune system without needing immunosuppressive therapy, demonstrating promising early results for insulin production.
3. Data presented from the ADJUST-T1D trial showed that semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, was a safe and efficacious adjunct therapy for individuals with T1D and obesity, helping maintain glucose levels and contributing to weight loss without adverse events.

These significant advancements were just a glimpse of what was shared at the ADA conference. For anyone interested in further details regarding T1D research, Breakthrough T1D’s website offers additional information regarding the studies and presentations that occurred during these critical discussions.

As the primary global organization focused on T1D research and advocacy, Breakthrough T1D is committed to improving the everyday lives of individuals living with this condition while actively pursuing avenues toward potential cures. Through investment in promising research and collaboration with government entities, they are addressing the challenges faced by those affected by T1D, encompassing a community effort against this chronic autoimmune disorder.

Type 1 diabetes, affecting nearly 9 million people worldwide, requires ongoing insulin therapy due to the autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. While it predominantly appears in children and adolescents, approximately half of T1D diagnoses occur in adults, emphasizing the wide-reaching impact of this disease.

For more information on T1D and Breakthrough T1D's initiatives, visit their website.