research

Overview of Gel Networks and Cell Encapsulation

  • Definition and Purpose: Gel networks are tools for encapsulating cells using complementary polymers.

    • Application: Serve multiple purposes in various fields, especially biomedical applications.

  • Historical Context:

    • Early methods used toxic materials like formaldehyde or glutaraldehyde to create polymers for encapsulation.

    • Need for safer alternatives led to new methods utilizing less harmful materials.

Mechanism of Polymer Interaction

  • Analogy with Velcro:

    • Two polymer bands: One with hooks (nucleophile) and another with loops (electrophile).

    • Upon contact, they cross-link and bind together, similar to how Velcro works, facilitating encapsulation.

Collaborations and Applications in Medicine

  • Initial Collaboration:

    • Worked with Dr. Potter, a pediatric endocrinologist, to encapsulate cells to save infants lacking certain enzymes.

  • Shift to Diabetes Research:

    • After Dr. Potter closed his lab, the focus pivoted towards diabetes.

    • Understanding blood sugar regulation:

    • Blood sugar must be maintained within a certain range (controlled by insulin).

    • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) vs. hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and their consequences.

    • Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disorder where immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells.

Diabetes Treatment Challenges

  • Current Treatment Approaches:

    • Attempts to transplant donated beta cells or develop stem cell-derived islets.

    • Issues with rejection by the immune system necessitate immune suppression, which poses health risks.

  • Illustrative Case:

    • Case of the first human cured by stem cell-derived beta cells, who ultimately succumbed to complications from immune suppression.

Polymer Chemistry in Diabetes Solutions

  • Role of Hydrogels:

    • Development of synthetic hydrogels to encapsulate beta cells and protect them from the immune system.

    • Structures allow for nutrients and oxygen diffusion while preventing immune cell penetration.

    • Mechanism: "Wiggly lines" of synthetic polymers wrap around beta cells, formed into capsules to protect cells while allowing interaction with the immune system.

  • Key Characteristics of Capsules:

    • Immune evasive properties, high surface area for nutrient exchange, retrievable surgical options.

    • Capsules can be shaped and coated to enhance performance.

    • The cells are immobilized but can still communicate via insulin release and nutrient intake.

Development and Entrepreneurship Journey

  • Founding of the Company:

    • After unsuccessful collaborations, the decision to start their own company was made, with family involvement.

    • Importance of fundraising skills brought by co-founder, Maria, who has a strong background in nonprofit and communication.

  • Steps of Development:

    • Company was bootstrapped with initial funding from McMaster and subsequent investments from venture capitalists.

    • Conducting both small and large animal trials as part of proving the concept.

  • Advice for Startups:

    • Importance of taking incremental steps; challenges are manageable when tackled one by one.

    • Networking with knowledgeable individuals in the field accelerates progress.

Engagement with the Diabetes Community

  • Conference Participation:

    • Attend key diabetes conferences to present advancements and discuss collaborations with major pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk.

    • Gathering feedback on both their products and the ongoing progress of industry counterparts.

  • Future Prospects:

    • Anticipation of potential partnerships for enhanced cell therapy solutions.