T1D Highlights from the ADA 84th Scientific Sessions

Key topics of the conference heralded as one of the most significant diabetes events worldwide, concentrated on the obesity epidemic and GLP-1 inhibitors (which, though not approved FDA-approved for type 1 diabetes (T1D) use, are becoming increasingly prescribed in certain circumstances.

The recent sessions, held June 21-24, 2024, in Orlando, Florida, highlighted over 2,000 research developments and supported research with presentations on more than 180 Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) studies.

Global Healthcare Consultant Danica Collins, aka Danica the Diabetic, attended the conference and found the Scientific Sessions truly inspirational. “Being immersed in an environment dedicated to all aspects of diabetes, particularly innovations, is incredibly empowering. The research updates and poster sessions highlighted the multifaceted nature of diabetes.”

Across the T1D spectrum, the event concentrated on prevention and monitoring through autoantibody testing. Also, Vertex human trials and medical advancement from Symbio Cell Tech, iTolerance and Kadimastem generated excitement.

Read on for a quick recap of T1D endeavors; sure to raise your eyebrows and rekindle your enthusiasm.

Autoantibody Testing

Autoantibody testing continues to remain at the forefront of T1D dialogue. Early type 1 detection saves lives by reducing the cases of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the deadly side effect of undetected high blood glucose levels.

Breakthrough T1D, ADA, and Type 1 Strong, among others, presented powerful case studies for testing that will hopefully lead to preventative measures and prolonged use of the existing pancreatic beta cells.

Innovation Challenge 2024

Every year, at the ADA’s Scientific Sessions, its Innovation Challenge invites emerging companies to pitch ideas that address everyday problems faced by people with diabetes, their families, and their caregivers. 

Startups worldwide compete to receive financial backing and showcase their work to a panel of expert judges and professionals (endocrinologists, researchers, nurses, pharmaceutical industry leaders, and diabetes educators).

T1D Strong is thrilled its DNA testing was selected as one of the top 10 finalists for the ADA Innovation Challenge 2024.

CEO and Founder Yuta Matsuda said, “We presented our project and exchanged many ideas with other experts in the field. We appreciate this opportunity, and we are moving forward!”

Diabetes Center Berne also selected T1D Strong’s DNA testing as one of the top 20 finalists in its Open Innovation Challenge 2024. T1D Strong’s DNA testing tool aims to reduce misdiagnosis between T1D and type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Guidelines for Early T1D Monitoring

The first-ever presentation and publication on monitoring early-stage type 1 diabetes was led by Breakthrough T1D and over 60 international organizations. The recommendations provide monitoring guidelines for children, adolescents and adults who test positive for T1D autoantibodies. Fortunately, the guidance includes educational and psychosocial support.

Interesting Fact: ADA addressed mental health issues more so this year than in the past, with sessions on diabetes distress, social stigma, insulin costs, and hypoglycemia.

CGMs to Predict T1D

In another Breakthrough T1D session, Peter Calhoun, Ph.D, discussed how the use of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) plays a pivotal role in predicting who moves into Stage 3 T1D earlier. Incorporating five screening programs (TrialNet, ASK (Autoimmunity Screening for Kids), DAISY (Diabetes Autoimmunity Study in the Young), DIPP (Type 1 Diabetes Prediction and Prevention), and BDR (Belgium Diabetes Registry)—the study shows that through using CGM data helped classify the onset of T1D in specific individuals.

Therapies to Delay T1D Onset

Recent drugs, like Tzield™ (teplizumab-mzwv), which preserve beta cell destruction, have become increasingly advantageous in delaying T1D onset. Kevan Herold, M.D., presented a secondary analysis of the phase III PROTECT clinical trial, showing that Tzield also decreases insulin needs and improves time-in-range.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Clinical Trials

The most highly anticipated focus for most T1Ds at the conference was an update by Vertex Pharmaceuticals on its stem cell-derived islet cell therapy—phase I/II clinical trials of VX-880.

The embryonic stem cell trials (taken with immunosuppressant drugs) confirmed positive results with all participants. Individuals on the therapy reported an HbA1c below 7.0% for up to five months, and 11 of 12 participants experienced an insulin reduction or complete elimination of external insulin.

“Witnessing progress like the results from the Vertex VX-880 clinical trial, where two participants achieved insulin independence, is something we’ve all been hoping for but never imagined could be achievable until now,” Collins said. “Diabetes research is advancing rapidly, and our technology keeps innovating. It’s an exciting time in the field, and I can’t wait for the full impact of all this work to directly benefit my life as someone living with type one diabetes.”

Vertex’s other clinical trial (VX-264) uses the same cell line in addition to an encapsulation device to protect the beta cells from the body’s immune system attack.

Symbio Cell Tech Study

Symbio Cell Tech is now seeking FDA approval to begin a phase I/II clinical trial with a similar goal to Vertex’s VX-264. The biotherapy with “Neo-islets” transplanted into the patient’s omentum (fatty layer outside the stomach) does not require encapsulation devices or antirejection drugs. Symbio Cell Tech won one of the three ADA’s Innovation Challenge awards.

iTolerance and Kadimastem to Reverse T1D

Though still far from human trials, iTolerance announced another islet transplantation therapy without immunosuppressants. With successful animal testing results, the study collaborates with the efforts of iTolerance’s iTOL-100 immunomodulatory gel to protect Kadimastem’s line of stem cell-derived islets. The study is being conducted at the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI).

Other session highlights include:

GLP-1s to Treat T1D

More T1Ds are experiencing positive outcomes with GLP-1 medications. Used as an adjunct treatment to insulin therapy, the results showed a substantial improvement in glycemic control. According to T1D Exchange, participants saw improved HbA1c levels and diminished hypoglycemic events. Other benefits include weight loss and improved metabolic outcomes.

This adjunct therapy also showed benefits in weight management, with some participants experiencing weight loss.

These results suggest that GLP-1 agonists may be an advantageous supplement to type 1 diabetes treatment plans, possibly lessening the need for insulin dosage and enhancing overall metabolic outcomes.

AI (Artificial Intelligence) Aids in T1D Treatments

While AI strikes fear in some through its AI-generated images, videos and written texts, the diabetes tech world appears to applaud its advancements.

AI experts discussed improved diabetes care through apps, pumps, CGMs and automated insulin delivery systems.

Collins said that she particularly enjoyed the discussions about the new Tandem Mobi insulin pump. “It was surreal to see the work presented in a clinical trial I participated in, and now I’m actually wearing the device.”

Sessions included discussions about enhanced analytics that prevent hypoglycemia by using CGM data along with algorithms to anticipate low blood glucose episodes up to an hour in advance.

Also, a session led by Aaron Y. Lee, MD, from the University of Washington, presented the use of AI for diabetic retinopathy screenings with improved detection and treatment.

Final Thoughts

Collaborating with innovative minds begets cutting-edge approaches to accelerate a T1D cure. Improving diabetes treatments and access to care only increases positive results and supports T1DStrong’s mission of helping T1D individuals thrive with diabetes. Next year's conference will be held in Chicago, Illinois, June 20-23, 2025.