Unique Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes and Islet Cell Transplantation

Background



Deposition of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP or amylin) fibrils is associated with over 90% of cases of type 2 diabetes, and is present regardless of the obesity of the patient. 1 As with other amyloid disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, IAPP aggregates and fibrils are cytotoxic and are considered to be a significant contributor to β-cell loss and the impairment of islet function which in turn prevents the release of insulin in response to high glucose levels. Recent evidence also indicates that rapid accumulation of IAPP amyloid may be a factor in islet graft failure in individuals who have undergone transplantation therapy.


Technology

Our technology is a peptide therapeutic that prevents the formation of IAPP aggregates. These 3-6 amino acid peptides have been shown to improve islet cell survival in vitro so more cells are available for transplantation. These peptides as well as other potential inhibitors are also being tested in vivo for the prevention of IAPP fibril formation in the pancreas.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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