TREATING TYPE-1 DIABETES BY PRESERVING BETA CELL FUNCTION

Invention Novelty

This invention proposes the first pharmacological treatment to prevent the onset of Type I diabetes by preventing beta cell destruction. 

Value Proposition

Type I diabetes in an autoimmune disease - currently affecting approximately 1.25 Americans - that leads to the destruction of pancreatic beta cells and, consequently, a loss of glucose homeostasis.  Preserving partial pancreatic function would reduce patient dependence on insulin greatly increasing patient quality of life and decreasing diabetes related diseases such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart disease.  This invention describes the use of existing compounds to target a specific cellular pathway thus preventing the destruction of pancreatic beta cells.

This novel invention provides the following advantages:

• Prevents the progression of Type 1 diabetes by preserving pancreatic cell function
• Utilizes drugs with known safety profiles to treat diabetes.

Technology Description

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco have identified a cellular pathway that, when inhibited, prevents the progression of beta cell destruction. This technology utilizes clinically tested drugs to target this previously unappreciated pathway.  

Application

Treatment of Type 1 diabetes.

Looking for Partners

To develop and commercialize this technology to treat Type I diabetes.  

Stage of Development

Preclinical

Data Availability

Under NDA/CDA

Patent Status