The research team of Prof. Bart Roep (Leids University Medical Center) and Prof. Dr. Karsten Kretscher (Technische Universität Dresden) will collaborate with the immunology company DC4U to develop an innovative treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes. received a Eurostars scholarship for this he received 1.7 million euros. The LUMC reports it.
Type 1 diabetes is a serious autoimmune disease that develops when insulin-producing cells (beta cells) are attacked by the immune system. Insulin is an essential hormone for bringing sugar into cells and fueling our bodies.
Paradoxically, the new innovative approach uses sugars. The aim of the treatment to be developed is to “train” the immune cells with sugars, which can influence the immune system’s response to tolerate proinsulin. The research group of researchers from LUMC Roep and Prof. Dr. Jaap Jan Zwaginga has already shown in previous clinical studies that this approach works with the application of vitamin D3. However, the procedure examined at the time was complex and expensive.
Glyco-immunology
That’s why we partnered with DC4U, an immunology company that develops innovative treatments for autoimmune diseases and allergies. DC4U’s research on glycoimmunology technology may offer a ready-to-use alternative to the procedure studied by the LUMC.
Glycoimmunology is the field where sugar and protein meet and where DC4U’s Prof. Yvette van Kooyk conducts groundbreaking research. Thanks to the application of dendritic cells (part of the immune system), it can elicit a specific, powerful and long-lasting immune response without side effects. Coupled with LUMC experience and knowledge, this unique combination can accelerate the development of a potential type 1 diabetes drug.
Edited by: National Care Guide
