Regenerative Medical Solutions (RMS), a Wisconsin-based biotechnology company, has secured a peer-reviewed National Institutes of Health (NIH) Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant of approximately $1.8 million to advance its potential diabetes cure to the next stage of clinical development.
The Madison-based company is developing a novel therapeutic approach that transforms human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into insulin-producing cells (ILCs), which can then be transplanted to restore insulin production and regulate blood glucose levels in diabetic patients.
Addressing Current Treatment Limitations
Current transplant treatments for diabetes require patients to receive immunosuppression therapy, which can cause severe side effects, including death. RMS's innovative approach aims to eliminate the need for these heavy immunosuppressive drugs while providing unlimited numbers of safe, insulin-producing cells.
"This grant brings real hope for anyone suffering from diabetes; we're one step closer to a functional cure, which would be life-changing for anyone affected by the disease," stated Anthony Kolton, CEO of RMS.
Advancing Proof-of-Concept Studies
The NIH funding will enable RMS to continue with its proof-of-concept research, which involves conducting "humanized" animal studies based on numerous preliminary petri dish tests. The scientific team will focus on creating insulin-producing cells that can be manufactured in unlimited quantities while maintaining safety profiles and avoiding the complications associated with current immunosuppressive protocols.
These new insulin-producing cells could provide an effective therapy for many diabetic patients, potentially addressing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes through a single therapeutic approach.
Technology Foundation and Development Timeline
RMS has built its diabetes treatment program on over 25 years of research in regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy. The company is committed to developing ethical, non-embryonic stem cell therapies that could provide a lasting diabetes cure.
The biotechnology company's approach represents a significant departure from conventional diabetes management, focusing on restoration of natural insulin production rather than external insulin supplementation or current transplant methodologies that require lifelong immunosuppression.
Investment Opportunities and Market Impact
RMS is actively seeking investors to support bringing its diabetes cure to market. The company emphasizes both the societal benefit and potential return on investment for stakeholders. Wisconsin investors receive an additional incentive through a 25% state tax credit on invested amounts.
"It's a great opportunity to get behind a worthwhile cause doing good for society and see a potential return on investment," explained Kolton.
The company's mission focuses on delivering this groundbreaking cure to millions of diabetes patients worldwide, representing both a significant medical advancement and substantial market opportunity in the diabetes treatment landscape.
