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We are getting closer to the possibility of people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) needing to administer basal insulin only once a week instead of every single day, with Novo Nordisk announcing the latest results of its ONWARDS 6 clinical trial.

What was the clinical trial studying?

ONWARDS clinical trials, which have been ongoing for the past few years, have been separated into six trials. The first five trials were in people with type 2 diabetes – comparing the once-weekly insulin (called icodec) with a daily insulin, either insulin glargine (a long-acting modified form of medical insulin) or degludec (an ultralong-acting basal insulin analogue).

The latest trial, ONWARDS 6, compared the once-weekly insulin icodec to daily insulin degludec in people with T1D.

The results of ONWARDS 6 were presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) conference, and simultaneously published in The Lancet. ONWARDS 6 was a large-scale study of 582 adults with T1D comparing the basal insulins (weekly icodec vs daily degludec) in combination with fast-acting insulin aspart.

The study was primarily looking to determine if there was a difference in HbA1c (a blood glucose measurement), as well as time-in-range, diabetes treatment satisfaction, and number of severe hypoglycemic episodes.

The researchers found no difference in HbA1c or time-in-rangebetween the people who took icodec vs those who took degludec. The weekly icodec group did have more episodes of hypoglycemia compared to the daily degludec group, however, the numbers of these episodes were quite low overall (20 and 10 events per patient year for the icodec and degludec groups, respectively).

Moreover, both groups had improved scores on the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire, somewhat favouring the degludec group.  While we may have expected treatment satisfaction to be higher in the weekly icodec group, the increased scores are likely attributable to receiving additional treatment and medical attention as part of the trial, as well as the fact that both groups improved their HbA1c scores by an average of 0.5%.

What do the trial results mean for people with T1D?

While weekly insulin icodec was as effective as daily insulin degludec at reducing HbA1c in people with T1D, it did lead to a higher rate of hypoglycemic episodes – although the overall rate of hypoglycemia was very low for both groups.

These results provide important information about the safety and effectiveness of weekly insulin and will inform the next round of icodec clinical trials. JDRF Canada will continue to monitor the progress and provide updates when available.

Susan’s journey began when her daughter, Amy, was diagnosed with T1D at a young age. Determined to make a difference, Susan, alongside four other families, embarked on a remarkable journey. They established the very first JDRF Chapter in Canada, located in Montreal, and commenced their tireless efforts to transform the landscape of T1D research.

Working from her family’s basement, Susan poured her heart and soul into the mission of raising awareness and helping to ensure essential funding for T1D research.

“Susan was a devoted mother and friend, who invested an immeasurable amount of time and energy into ensuring that T1D research received the support it desperately needed,” remarked Jimmy Garfinkle, a close friend, a co-founding family member, and an unwavering supporter of JDRF Canada. Susan’s tenacity and vision continue to be a source of inspiration for all who knew her. Her contributions to the cause have been invaluable.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Susan for her instrumental role in founding JDRF in Canada and contributing to a lasting research and advocacy legacy. Her dedication has positively impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of Canadians affected by T1D.

As we remember Susan, let us celebrate the indelible mark she leaves on the fight against Type 1 Diabetes. /  Her tireless efforts have brought us closer to a world without T1D

Link to Obituary – Susan Gold-Reich – Funeral Information, Obituary, Condolences – Papermans & Sons, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Contributions in Susan’s memory may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). 

Ross Chocolates, a longtime corporate partner of JDRF Canada is generously providing a matching gift in honour of National Diabetes Awareness Month. All donations made throughout November will be matched by Ross Chocolates, up to a maximum of $20,000. 

JDRF Canada sent their CEO Stefano Urbani some questions regarding the inspiration behind their support of the diabetes community and commitment to diabetes research. 

JDRF Canada: Tell us a little bit about the history of Ross Chocolates. 

 In 1995, Bob Ross, the founder of Ross Chocolates and a devoted chocolate enthusiast, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Despite the dietary restrictions imposed by his condition, Bob was determined to continue to enjoy eating chocolate.  

At that time, the availability of no sugar added chocolate (sugar-free) was scarce, so many people with diabetes ate chocolate made with carob rather than cocoa. Carob chocolate lacks the smoothness, depth, and unique flavour of cocoa chocolate. Bob decided to create his own cocoa chocolate sweetened without sugar to feed his need for that real chocolate taste and embarked on a mission to craft high-quality chocolate without any added sugars.  

Starting in his kitchen, Bob meticulously experimented with combinations of cocoa beans, cocoa butter, and diabetes-safe sweeteners to create high-quality, tasty, diabetes-friendly milk and dark chocolate. By 1998, Ross Chocolates was offering consumers their No Sugar Added Chocolate bars, catering to people with diabetes and those seeking to eliminate sugar from their diet. 

The popularity of Ross Chocolates surged, with millions of bars sold across North America, Europe, and other continents.  

Today, Ross Chocolates remains committed to crafting the exceptional chocolate that Bob Ross pioneered. Staying true to their founder’s vision, Ross Chocolates continues to innovate and develop new No Sugar Added chocolate treats for those looking to eliminate or reduce their sugar consumption. In 2022, a research study at the University of British Columbia determined that Ross No Sugar Added Dark Chocolate has no noticeable effect on blood sugar levels in those with any type of diabetes (https://rosschocolates.ca/ubc-study-results/) 

JDRF Canada: What drove Ross Chocolates to make sugar-free chocolate safe for people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes? 

Bob Ross’ story remains a driving force behind Ross Chocolates’ desire to provide people with diabetes safe alternatives to regular chocolate or sugar-free chocolate sweetened with alternatives that continue to minimally affect blood sugar levels. Our goal is focussed on creating the most delicious chocolate available that does not affect blood sugar levels at all (with our dark chocolate flavours) or as minimally as possible (with our milk chocolate flavours). 

With heightened consumer awareness about diabetes and carbohydrate intakes, there is a growing market demand for high-quality, sugar-free (no sugar added) chocolate treats. Health and wellness trends are also leading many to Ross Chocolates as they seek alternatives to high-sugar options.  

Ross stays at the forefront of both adhering to regulatory guidelines and utilizing technological advancements in alternative sweeteners as we create new products. Creating sugar-free chocolates using the latest research and availability of alternative sweeteners safe for people with diabetes to consume without requiring extra insulin is constantly occurring at Ross Chocolates. Ultimately, the food industry plays a pivotal role in promoting the well-being of individuals managing diabetes through the creation of safe and enjoyable sugar-free options. 

JDRF Canada: What does your support of JDRF Canada mean to you as a company? 

 Ross Chocolates is committed to supporting diabetes research by donating a portion of every sale to organizations like JDRF Canada. Our goal is to make a positive societal impact by helping to fund T1D research, which ultimately improves the lives of those living with T1D and ideally will lead to a world that is free from type 1 diabetes. 

Aligning with a reputable organization like JDRF enhances the Ross Chocolates brand image, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility. Additionally, supporting JDRF provides opportunities for employees to engage in meaningful volunteer work, fostering a sense of community within the company. This, in turn, boosts employee morale and satisfaction.  

Supporting JDRF leads to valuable networking opportunities and collaborations with researchers, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups focused on diabetes. Ultimately, supporting JDRF is a meaningful way for us to contribute to a vital cause, positively impact the lives of individuals with T1D, and demonstrate our reputation as a socially responsible and community-oriented organization. 

JDRF Canada: Is there anything else you would like to share with the type 1 diabetes community. 

Over the years, Ross Chocolates has been able to help support diabetes research, with a portion of every sale going to diabetes research organizations. We are proud of our support of JDRF and the work that they do to help those living with T1D. We know life with T1D is not easy, and we hope to help by offering chocolate treats you can easily enjoy daily without worries of blood glucose levels rising, while supporting JDRF in its mission of finding cures for type 1 diabetes. 

To learn more about Ross Chocolates visit www.rosschocolates.ca/about-us/

When we come together as a collective, we can accomplish great things.

A dedicated group of lawyers and law firms from across Canada rallied together this year to support JDRF’s Legal Sector Challenge, raising funds to help accelerate the pace of type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Thanks to their bold commitment to the T1D community, JDRF will be able to allocate more dollars to research into cures and treatments to improve lives. We are beyond grateful to the philanthropic leaders who rose to the challenge of providing gifts.

Thank you to our generous donors who participated:

• Andrew and Lisa Wiseman 
• Anonymous donation
• Brian Johnston
• Christine Pound
• Daniela Bassan
• Dorsey & Whitney Foundation
• Fasken
• Fred Rubinoff
• Goldman, Spring, Kichler & Sanders LLP
• Grant Machum
• Jeffrey and Shawna Citron
• Jen Feron and Jim Murphy
• John Currie
• Larry Freeman
• Leonard Baranek
• Level Chan
• Matthew Newell
• Maurice Chiasson
• Norton Rose Fulbright Canada
• Sheldon Freeman
• Susan Hayes
• Todd Schindeler
• William McCullough

Thank you to the legal sector volunteer leaders who championed the challenge:

• Fred Rubinoff, Goodmans LLP
• Rebecca Saturley, Stewart McKelvey
• Dan Miller, Dorsey & Whitney LLP

Where the Challenge Began

In 2023, JDRF Canada volunteers Fred Rubinoff, Rebecca Saturley, and Dan Miller – all lawyers who have a personal connection to T1D – started the Legal Challenge to mobilize their industry, inspired by similar challenges in the commercial real estate and wealth management sectors. With personal connections to T1D, they are devoted to creating a world without this chronic disease, not only for their loved ones but all Canadians impacted by T1D.

Fred Rubinoff is passionate about changing the landscape of this debilitating disease for everyone living with T1D worldwide. Ever since his late wife Tracey, who lived with T1D for many years, sadly passed away in 2004 from diabetes-related complications, Fred has been driven to help accelerate life-saving treatments and potential cures for T1D.

“Tracey did not have access to the comprehensive diabetes care she needed throughout her adolescence – I don’t want any other family to have to endure that or such a loss. People with T1D need adequate support to help them cope with this life-long condition and hope that a cure is on the horizon. I want to press forward and unite to fund initiatives that help ensure this doesn’t happen to anyone else and see an end to this disease for good.”

– Fred Rubinoff

Where the Dollars Go

All donations to the Legal Challenge will bolster JDRF’s Accelerator Fund, which allows JDRF to be nimble in our efforts to fund cure-based research while also improving lives today. The fund makes an immediate impact by supporting all areas of JDRF, including the greatest needs within the $100M Campaign to Accelerate.

Here are a few examples of what the Accelerator Fund supports:

• Promising cure-based T1D research in Canada and across the globe
• Training for mental health providers on how to best support clients living with T1D
• Operational costs such as research and financial oversight, and revenue generation
• Advocacy for better access and affordability to life-saving devices through Access for All

Advocacy is an area that hits home for Rebecca Saturley and her son, Oliver, diagnosed with T1D at age 9, who live in a province where advanced glucose monitors are not covered by provincial health plans, and people must pay out of pocket for these life-saving devices. Everyone deserves affordable access to technologies to help ease the burden of life with T1D.

Fred, Rebecca, and Dan hope the success of the Legal Sector Challenge will spark interest and inspire others to support the Accelerator Fund and help transform lives across Canada. Donor support helps make JDRF’s work possible – these investments continue the momentum in critical T1D cure research, advocacy, and innovative projects to improve the lives of people with T1D today and tomorrow. With research moving faster than ever, now is the time to champion a future without T1D.

Are you interested in learning more or starting a sector challenge of your own?

To find out how you can further engage with JDRF or give to the Accelerator Fund, contact Tammy Bucci, Director of Leadership Giving, at tbucci@jdrf.ca.

One of Canada’s longest running and top fundraising events held Rides in Montréal, Toronto and Calgary, on October 5, 12 and 19, 2023 respectively, along with community ‘Ride Your Way’ rides taking place across the country this past month. For 38 years the Sun Life Ride to Defeat Diabetes for JDRF has been bringing together corporate executives and teams to move work aside and move for a cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D).

T1D is an autoimmune condition impacting nearly 300,000 Canadians. The incidence of T1D in Canada is rising by 4.4% each year, higher than the global average of 3% – and we don’t know why. Funds raised from the Sun Life Ride to Defeat Diabetes for JDRF will accelerate the pace of the most promising research into cures and support programs that improve the lives of those living with the disease today.

More than 1175 teams and over 6200 fundraisers from more than 85 Canadian companies coast to coast participated in this high-energy event. Our Riders have secured almost 16,000 donations and have raised over $1.9 million and counting. We could not be more grateful for everyone’s efforts!

Together, corporate Canada made a difference for the close to 300,000 Canadians and the countless more who are affected by type 1 diabetes.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to our sponsor and volunteers, without whom this event would not be a success. Thanks to their support, we were also able to offer an incredible day of high energy spin workouts, highlight inspirational stories through both video and speakers, and ultimately get us closer to our goal for cures for type 1 diabetes.

Thank you also to our JDRF ambassadors Paloma Davarsi (Montréal), Karoline Cope (Toronto) and Luke McDonald and Chris Holmstead (Calgary) who took time out of their day to share with our riders the importance of funding T1D research, and what life is like with T1D.

Thank you again to everyone who participated and to our incredible corporate partners. Plans are already underway for next year’s event.

Local Partner	Real Estate Hour Sponsor	Real Estate Hour Sponsor

For many families newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D), Halloween can feel overwhelming – a holiday centered on candy when you’re just figuring out carb counting and nutrition. However, with the right tools and knowledge, Halloween can and should be just as fun for your child.

Here are some helpful tips for having a T1D scare-free Halloween!

Make A Plan

Plan ahead to help make a potentially challenging holiday manageable. It’s important to make sure that teachers, neighbors, and temporary caregivers all know how to handle the abundance of snacks and excitement. Things they should know include:

• The amount of candy you are comfortable with your child consuming
• How you plan to manage insulin dosing based on activity level, blood glucose readings, and treats
• Any foods they should avoid due to allergies or gluten intolerance
• The symptoms of low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) and high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) and how to treat each
• A parent or guardian’s contact information

Trick-or-Treating

Running around during the evening hours may not be a part of your child’s typical routine. Here are a few tips to ensure that trick-or-treat outgoings go smoothly:

• The activity and excitement around trick-or-treating can cause low blood glucose, so talk to your diabetes healthcare team about setting a lower temporary basal rate to account for the extra nighttime exercise.
• Cooler temperatures can contribute to low blood glucose. Regardless of the type of costume, make sure your child stays warm.
• No matter how complicated the costume, pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) should be easily accessible. Find a place for your child’s insulin pump and CGM under their costume. There are a variety of products designed to hold T1D supplies and gear to make the outing easier for everyone.
• Have a plan for eating candy and other foods while trick-or-treating.
• Take inventory! Sneakily consumed candy could be the explanation for elevated Halloween blood glucose levels. All of those treats can be tempting.

Halloween Treat Alternatives

People with T1D should enjoy Halloween treats, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative!

• Save some candy for treating lows. Candies that have dextrose as a key ingredient, like Skittles, are great for quickly bringing up blood glucose. Candies with higher fat content, like chocolate bars, are not ideal for treating lows.
• Turn some of your child’s pile of candy into “currency” they can use to “buy” a book, toy, computer time, or other fun activity. You can donate this uneaten candy, so it’s win-win.
• Give back to others! Food banks and groups fighting hunger will often accept candy donations.

Have fun! Halloween should be a blast for all kids, including those with T1D. We hope these tips and tricks ensure your Halloween is fun, not frightful!

Once again in 2023, David Garfinkle and Steven Mitchell – along with a team of supporters rallied Canadians to come together to support type 1 diabetes (T1D) research by committing to pick up their clubs this summer and join the JDRF Golf Challenge.

The JDRF Golf Challenge has its roots in the JDRF Golf Marathon, first started forty years ago by David and Steven in the early 80s. They revived the event in 2022, and from that came this year’s Golf Challenge.

From August 13-20, (and throughout the year) players from across the country and around the world were invited to tee off for T1D and take up the JDRF Golf Challenge to play a collective 11,000 holes of golf in support of the approximately 11,000 Canadians who will be diagnosed with T1D this year.

The challenge couldn’t have been simpler. Play a round (or several) of 18 holes, go marathon-style and play from dusk till dawn, hit the driving range or even take the family to mini putt, the event was open to any golfer of any skillset to play in support of accelerating the most promising T1D research.

Thank you to all that participated in this year’s Golf Challenge and Tournaments.

Events were held and participants Teed Off for T1D across the country (and even around the world with an event taking place in Dubai!). Together participants raised an outstanding over $200K and counting!

Thank you as well to our:

• Top Fundraising Teams – Dude Where is my Par, the Dubai Mighty Ballers and Fore Amigos
• Top Fundraisers – Adam Rockman of Quebec and Tanner Smook (Manitoba) and Jonathan Garfinkle (Quebec)
• Our Committee – David Garfinkle, Steven Mitchell, Zoe Bowen, Tracey Beasley-Allison and Honorary members Max Domi and Kaleb Dahlgren
• Our matching donor – David Garfinkle
• Our Partners –Corporate Champion– Richter, Family Office and Community Partner- Muskoka Bay Resort & Spa

This was truly a collective effort and JDRF is so grateful to everyone who contributed, whether by volunteering, contributing, or playing golf. Plans are already underway for a new event in 2024.

Dr. Sing-Young Chen is a postdoctoral researcher at the JDRF Centre of Excellence at the University of British Columbia, and the second annual recipient of a J. Andrew McKee Fellowship in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), jointly funded by JDRF Canada and the Stem Cell Network (SCN) based at the JDRF Centre of Excellence at the University of British Columbia (UBC).  

JDRF had the pleasure of connecting with Dr. Chen to congratulate her on her new fellowship and discuss her research.   

Tell us a little bit more about your background.  

I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Sydney, studying biochemistry and physiology. During my undergraduate studies, I was fortunate to take part in a summer research program at Vanderbilt University, which is when I first became interested in islet biology. Then, I did my PhD at the University of New South Wales, where I studied obesity and obesity-related diseases, with a focus on physiology and drug development.

I’m now at UBC for my postdoctoral training where I am investigating sex differences in islet responses to stress, with the hope of developing novel treatments for type 1 diabetes.

What brought you to Vancouver?  

I wanted to work with the researchers at UBC as I had followed their work for a while, and I knew the T1D research there was very strong, and I wanted to be a part of that. I was pleased to find that, coming here, I knew immediately that it was the right move. From the start, I learned so much and I’m learning more every day.

What drew you to type 1 diabetes?  

It was really a combination of scientific curiosity and the desire to do something that helps people in the world.

In terms of scientific curiosity, I learned early in my career that I had a particular interest in beta cells and pancreatic islets. If we stop to think about it, it’s actually so incredible that beta-cells can make so much insulin in response to nutrients and other stimuli and they do it so well, in such a controlled way. From a purely scientific viewpoint, they are endlessly fascinating.

But from a human perspective, I know that working on this has real meaning for real people, and like all scientists, I wanted to do something meaningful. I have friends who live with T1D, and I have only glimpsed how challenging it can be. Knowing my work may one day help them and others like them is a very special thing.

What are you planning on investigating at the JDRF Center of Excellence at UBC?  

My research focuses on understanding sex differences in beta-cell resilience to stresses associated with T1D.

In type 1 diabetes, the insulin-secreting beta-cells are subject to many stresses – for example, they are attacked by the immune system and there is a high demand for insulin. Pancreatic islets from females are more resilient to these stresses than islets from males and can survive to keep making insulin. My research seeks to understand and leverage these sex differences with a view to develop cell therapies that will thrive in a T1D environment.

 How is the JDRF-SCN fellowship going to impact your research?  

The Fellowship truly makes the research possible. Science is a team sport that involves a lot of networking and collaboration, and I’ve been really pleasantly surprised at all the resources and expertise that we can draw upon at both the JDRF Centre of Excellence and through SCN. It really helps us not to be limited and therefore be able to go where the science takes us.

Sometimes I’m in a meeting with my supervisors and they’ll just say, “Oh Francis Lynn* can answer that”, or “we can ask Bruce Verchere*”, and it’s so special that all this knowledge is accessible in this way.

 *T1D researchers at the JDRF Centre of Excellence

What were some of the more surprising aspects or challenges of your research?   

I’ve always been aware that the literature has a sort of bias in different fields. For example, I knew that lots of pre-existing research that only use mice of a single biological sex, but I didn’t realize how extensive the problem was and that historically most research almost never incorporated both sexes in the early stages (before in-human clinical trials). This has also often been the case with diabetes research. We’re missing so much information.

And on another note, I’ve learned that it’s surprising how much you need to get proper sleep! Science is so detail-oriented and it’s so much more important than even I realized to be well-rested.

What are some of your favourite aspects of what you do as a researcher? 

I’m so appreciative to have constant opportunities for learning and collaborating – and being able to make a difference in the world. The freedom to be able to explore and realize there are no limits to curiosity and learning.

It’s rare to have a career where you get to learn every day and realize that your curiosity can take you to places you never expected.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the JDRF Community?  

I’m so grateful to be here and to have the opportunity to both do important and meaningful work and continue to grow and learn as a researcher and scientist. As researchers, and as human beings, we all play a small part so that together we can accomplish great things. I realize I’ve been incredibly fortunate with the opportunities and education that I’ve had, and I’m committed to contribute as best as I can to our mission.

In a coordinated release of information today, Dr. Kevan Herold (Yale University) presented the PROTECT clinical trial results at the International Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) conference simultaneous to the release of the published article in the New England Journal of Medicine, and a press release issued by Sanofi (who acquired Provention Bio in April 2023). The PROTECT trial investigated whether teplizumab (brand name: TZIELD) can delay the progression of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in newly diagnosed (stage 3 T1D) children and adolescents ages 8-17. Based on the results, it can.

Over 300 participants took part in the study, with 217 receiving teplizumab and 111 receiving a placebo treatment. The results showed:

• TZIELD was effective at helping to keep the beta cells working better, as shown by something called C-peptide, which is a measure of how well beta cells are functioning.
• Participants taking TZIELD needed slightly less insulin, and had slightly improved time-in-range compared to the placebo group, however, these results weren’t statistically significant.
• Tzield has the potential to slow the progression of Stage 3 T1D in newly diagnosed individuals

“This new study shows that Tzield can slow down the autoimmune attack on insulin-producing beta cells in children and adolescents newly diagnosed with T1D,” said Sarah Linklater, PhD, JDRF Canada’s Chief Scientific Officer.

“This is new evidence that we can successfully intervene during this window of opportunity right after diagnosis – a critical step towards cures. Slowing down progression also provides important health benefits for individuals with T1D in the short- and long term. We applaud Provention Bio and Sanofi’s ongoing dedication to advancing disease-modifying therapies for individuals with T1D. JDRF continues to support a large amount of research on disease-modifying therapies as there is enormous potential for these types of treatments to benefit people living with the condition.”

JDRF has supported the development of teplizumab for nearly 30 years, which includes contributions through research grants, federal funding via the Special Diabetes Program, a strategic investment by the JDRF T1D Fund that brought Provention Bio into T1D for the first time, and more.

Currently, TZIELD is only approved in the U.S. by the FDA for use in individuals with stage 2 T1D (pre-diagnosis), which is identified via screening. The use of TZIELD in individuals within 6-weeks of T1D diagnosis (within stage 3) has not been submitted for approval to any regulator.

JDRF Canada will continue to monitor ongoing news of Tzield and will provide updates as they become available.

Training the next generation of researchers and clinicians in type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a central goal of JDRF’s global research strategy. Support of these emerging leaders is essential to ensure continued momentum in T1D research, and to facilitate translation of today’s evidence into tomorrow’s improved treatments and cures. JDRF seeks to attract and retain the brightest minds into the T1D field throughout their journeys to becoming independent researchers.

Research trainees are typically considered any researchers who are not yet independently conducting research. This can include students pursuing master’s degrees or Ph.D.’s, postdoctoral fellows, or junior clinician researchers. Trainees are in many ways the engine that drives research forward, as they are often the ones actively conducting the hands-on research activities in the lab or interacting with patients in the clinic.

The process

The journey to becoming an independent researcher can be long and challenging – and requires substantial funding to support. After a bachelor’s degree, which takes 3-4 years of undergraduate university courses, a trainee can enroll in a research-based master’s degree. This is typically 2-3 years and consists of coursework, independent research overseen closely by a supervisor (a university professor in a faculty position), and a thesis project. Some programs allow a master’s student to transition to a Ph.D. program after 1-year, otherwise PhD enrollment occurs following completion of a master’s degree. In Canada, a Ph.D. program is 4-5 years where students delve deeply into a specific research area, conducting original research, collaborating with mentors and peers, and presenting their findings at conferences. They complete coursework, pass comprehensive exams, and write a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to their field.

Research trainees may also be on the pathway to becoming a clinician-scientist (i.e., a practicing physician that also conducts research). In this case trainees will complete a bachelor’s degree, medical school, and then during their residency training they can do research fellowships or a clinician investigator program. They will split their time between clinical training and research training, often towards the pursuit of a master’s or Ph.D. (alongside their M.D.).

The contribution

Not only do trainees conduct much of the hands-on research that is led by an independent researcher, but they often bring new skills, fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the lab. Their diverse backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints can lead to novel approaches and creative solutions to research questions. Trainees contribute by conducting comprehensive literature reviews to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in their field. They analyze existing research to identify gaps, refine hypotheses, and design experiments that build upon previous work. Trainees often manage specific projects within the lab and play an essential role in publication of the research (i.e., manuscripts or journal articles). As trainees progress in their careers, more experienced trainees may take on mentorship roles for newer members of the lab. They provide guidance, support, and training, fostering a culture of learning and growth. Trainee positions are typically funded from research grants, fellowships, and awards. JDRF supports trainees in many ways – through dedicated awards specifically given to trainees for salary and research support, research grants to established researchers that are often used to support the trainees conducting the awarded research, and by partnering with programs such as CIRTN to extend government funds to trainees.

In 2022, donor funding supported over 40 research grants via JDRF. These funds largely support the primary costs of research – personnel.   Over the approximately 40 grants, JDRF funds supported: ·        33 postdoctoral fellows; ·        47 PhD students; ·        21 Master’s students; and ·        15 professional trainees including laboratory technicians. “Trainees are the lifeblood of laboratory research, driving innovation and expanding the horizons of scientific discovery. Having been involved with JDRF’s fundraisers since my childhood diagnosis of T1D, and now being a trainee in a JDRF-funded laboratory, I understand firsthand the immense value of their unwavering support. Research funding from organizations like JDRF is pivotal in not only sustaining but also nurturing the next generation of scientists at the heart of the laboratory. This unique privilege, coupled with my deep personal connection to JDRF, has not only enriched our scientific endeavors but also fuels the promise of a future where breakthroughs in diabetes treatment and prevention are well within our reach.” – Lindsay Pallo, PhD Candidate at the University of British Columbia funded in part by the JDRF Centre of Excellence and research grants to supervisor Dr. Bruce Verchere.

Career Development

While research is the central focus for trainees, career development and mentorship are integral parts of training. The eventual goal is for a trainee to establish an independent research position, whether that is as a university professor, a clinician scientist, or working within industry and private research.

The transition from trainee to independent position can be very difficult. Research funding is primarily obtained through competitive grants that rely on a past history of research funding – success begets success. JDRF helps to support this transition by funding newly independent researchers with Career Development Awards. These multi-year awards support the investigators newly independent research program, with support for new equipment, resources, and salary support where needed. In the case of clinician-scientists awards (ECRA), the funding protects the investigators time for research activities so that they can dedicate their limited resources to research rather than clinical practice while getting established.

Advancing Cell Replacement Therapy – Dr. Andrew Pepper “With the critical support of JDRF, my laboratory will strive to preserve the legacy of the Edmonton Protocol while ushering in a new era of cellular transplantation,” Andrew Pepper, PhD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Alberta and recipient of a JDRF Career Development Award.

Examining Barriers to Diabetes Technology – Dr. Alanna Weisman “I believe our research will identify areas for improvement for governments, health care providers, and those living with type 1 diabetes. I hope we may see some policy changes to make technologies easier for all to access.” – Alanna Weisman, MD, PhD, Endocrinologist and Clinician-Scientist, Leadership Sinai Centre for Diabetes; Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto

Why put donor dollars towards training?

Funding trainees is one of the greatest ‘bang for our buck’ investments JDRF can make!  Trainee contributions to ongoing research is invaluable, and JDRF’s carefully selected trainees often become future superstars in the T1D field, who go on to mentor their own outstanding trainees.  By funding trainees and encouraging them to stay within the field of T1D research, your dollars are helping us ensure that the future of T1D research is bright.

To support these future leaders of T1D research, please contact Jen Bavli at jbavli@jdrf.ca

For more information on JDRF Canada supported research trainees, please contact research@jdrf.ca

Where are they now?

Researcher	Trainee Award	Current Position
Dr. Heather Denroche	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2014-2017) & Advanced Postdoctoral Fellowship (2018-2022)	Director of Preclinical Development, Integrated Nanotherapeutics, Inc. Developing new nanomedicines to treat immune diseases such as T1D.
Dr. Adriana Migliorini	Advanced Postdoctoral Fellowship (2018-2021)	Research associate, McEwen Stem Cell Institute (University Health Network) Developing human pluripotent stem cells as a source of insulin-producing cells for people living with T1D.
Dr. Dan Luciani	Career Development Award (2013-2019)	Associate professor, University of British Columbia researching stem cell-derived beta cells
Dr. Anne Pesenacker	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2014-2017), CCTN Postdoctoral Fellowship (2017-2018)	Career Development Fellow, University College London, UK Researching autoimmune function in arthritis and T1D.
Dr. Yasaman Aghazadeh	CCTN Postdoctoral Fellowship (2016-2017)	Assistant Professor, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM)
Dr. Ahmad Haidar	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2013-2016)	Associate professor, McGill University Researching diabetes technologies and insulin therapies
Dr. Francis Lynn	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2007-2010) & Career Development Award (2011-2016)	Associate professor, University of British Columbia; Investigator, BC Children’s Hospital; Research Lead, JDRF Centre of Excellence at UBC Stem cell therapies for T1D cures.
Dr. Emmeline Heffernan	CCTN Postdoctoral Fellowship (2014-2016)	Pediatrician, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children
Dr. Kate Verbeeten	CCTN Postdoctoral Fellowship (2018-2019)	Pediatric endocrinologist, private practice, Toronto
Dr. Ashish Marwaha	CCTN Postdoctoral Fellowship (2014-2015)	Assistant Professor, University of Calgary, geneticist researching basic immunology and member of CanScreenT1D: JDRF-CIHR Screening Research Consortium
Dr. Jennifer Bruin	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2011-2015)	Associate Professor, Carleton University Environmental factors affecting T1D development
Dr. Pat MacDonald	Career Development Award (2009-2014)	Professor, University of Alberta; Canada Research Chair in Islet Biology; Director of Alberta Diabetes Institute IsletCore; lead of the Canadian Islet Research and Training Network (CIRTN) researching insulin production from islet cells
Dr. Reza B. Jalili	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2011-2014)	Director of In Vivo Sciences, Aspect Biosystems Developing immunoprotective biomaterials.
Dr. James Surapisitchat	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2010-2012)	Regional Medical Scientific Director of Oncology at Merck Pharmaceuticals
Dr. Majid Mojibian	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2010-2012)	In Vivo Modelling Lead, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute
Dr. Pedro Geraldes	Advanced Postdoctoral Fellowship (2009-2012)	Professor, Université de Sherbrooke; Canada Research Chair in Diabetes and Vascular Complications
Dr. Sylvie Lesage	Career Development Award (2008-2011)	Professor, Université de Montréal researching genetics of immune system cell populations
Dr. James Johnson	Career Development Award (2005-2010)	Professor, University of British Columbia; Research Lead, JDRF Centre of Excellence at UBC researching islet biology
Dr. Cristina Nostro	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2008-2010)	Senior Scientist at the McEwen Stem Cell Institute (University Health Network); Associate Professor, University of Toronto. Stem cell therapies for T1D cures.
Dr. Lucy Marzban	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2005-2007)	Associate professor, University of Manitoba researching beta cell death
Dr. Tim Kieffer	Career Development Award (2001-2006)	Professor, University of British Columbia researching stem cell-derived beta cells
Dr. Gregory Korbutt	Career Development Award (2000-2005)	Professor, University of Alberta; Scientific Director, Alberta Cell Therapy Manufacturing Facility; and a member of the original Edmonton Protocol team.
Dr. Janette Dufour	Postdoctoral Fellowship (2001-2003)	Professor, Texas Tech University Researching protective options for islet transplantation cells

Hamilton, ON, Canada and New York, NY – On October 3, 2023, Allarta Life Science, a Hamilton, Ontario-based regenerative medicine company announced it has received an award from JDRF International (JDRF Canada’s parent organization), that could amount to US$800,000 upon completion of research and development milestones.

Allarta was co-founded in 2019 by McMaster University Chemistry Professor Dr. Harald Stover and STEM leader Maria Antonakos, MBA, and uses polymer science and novel hydrogels to advance cell therapies for type 1 diabetes (T1D).

A large area of cure based T1D research is investigating cell therapy. The goal of cell therapy is to replace beta cells that are destroyed in a person with T1D, thereby allowing them to produce insulin again. This would lessen or eliminate the amount of external insulin required by someone living with T1D (either by injection, pen, or pump) for years or even decades.

One of the primary hurdles to cell therapies becoming a reality for people with T1D is the need for ongoing, systemic immunosuppression medication (similar to an organ transplant like a kidney or liver). To solve this problem, Allarta has developed a hydrogel platform that offers immune protection for transplanted beta cells. Allarta’s competitive advantage lies in its synthetic hydrogels designed to allow good metabolic connection of transplanted cells while protecting them from the hosts’ immune system.

The grant will directly fund Allarta’s ongoing work to increase durability and avoid the need for systemic immune suppression in current islet and beta cell transplantations to cure T1D. Pre-clinical studies will be conducted with porcine islets and stem cell-derived beta cells to determine if they can survive without immunosuppression.

“Protecting transplanted cells from immune rejection without the use of chronic systemic immunosuppression remains one of the primary barriers to the broad application of islet cell therapies to cure type 1 diabetes. Addressing it is a key priority for JDRF so that these therapies can be fully implemented,” said Jaime Giraldo, Ph.D., Associate Director of Research at JDRF International. “Allarta’s approach is well-aligned with our research strategy, and we look forward to working with them on testing the ability of these unique materials to protect implanted insulin-producing cells following transplantation.”

JDRF Canada is very excited to see a Canadian company as the recipient of this industry grant and one at the forefront of cutting-edge stem cell technology as a possible cure for type 1 diabetes. We will report on any results of the pre-clinical studies as they become available.

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About JDRF Canada  
JDRF Canada is the leading charitable organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research in Canada. Our mission is to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. We are an organization built on a grassroots model of people connecting in their local communities, collaborating regionally for efficiency and broader fundraising impact, and uniting on a national stage to pool resources, passion, and energy. We collaborate with academic institutions, governments, and corporate and industry partners to develop and deliver a pipeline of innovative therapies to people living with T1D. Our staff and volunteers throughout Canada and five international affiliates are dedicated to advocacy, community engagement and our shared vision of a world without T1D. For more information, please visit jdrf.ca

Media Contact:  
Ruth Kapelus
National Content and Media Relations Manager, JDRF Canada 
T. 647.789.2322 
E. rkapelus@jdrf.ca 
235 Yorkland Blvd., Suite 1201 Toronto, ON M2J 4Y8 
jdrf.ca 

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Semaglutide, brand names Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, and Wegovy®, is all over the news. It is Health Canada-approved to help people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) manage their blood glucose levels. It also decreases the risk of cardiovascular events and helps with weight loss. According to a recent commentary published in the New England Journal of Medicine [subscription required] by investigators at the State University of New York at Buffalo, it may also help newly diagnosed individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) make more insulin.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a peptide similar to naturally occuring glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1). It helps people with T2D in various ways, including by stimulating insulin production. These drugs have been on the market since the early 2000s.

Thanks to decades of JDRF-supported research, we know that most people diagnosed with T1D still have some functioning beta cells. They no longer make the amount of insulin needed by the body to function, but they do exist.

Preserving those beta cells, keeping them healthy and alive and, eventually, increasing their number and function through disease-modifying therapies is one of JDRF’s key priority areas when funding research.

 Study Results

The researchers in this study, who currently receive JDRF funding (via JDRF International in the United States) to investigate the use of semaglutide later in disease to assist with glycemic control, administered the drug to 10 individuals. These individuals were between the ages of 21 and 39 in stage 3, or new-onset T1D. They began treatment with semaglutide within three months of diagnosis with the goal of preserving beta cell function. Nine individuals tested positive for GAD, an antibody which can indicate the presence of autoimmunity for T1D; one tested positive for IA-2, another T1D autoantibody. Over the course of several months, all 10 individuals no longer had to administer insulin at mealtimes and six of the participants no longer needed basal insulin after six months. Additionally, participants saw an increase in C-peptide, which shows that their bodies were making more insulin after being on the therapy.

What Comes Next

These results are exciting, but much more work is needed.

The study raises additional questions for researchers. What effect does using semaglutide to increase insulin production by the remaining beta cells have on these cells? It’s possible that it may add further stress to these cells. Researchers still need to determine what the effect of this stress will be beyond the length of this study. Will the beta cells continue to produce insulin or will insulin production decline as it does typically with T1D? All of this must be investigated in a larger, follow-up study with a control group.

GLP-1s Are a Priority for JDRF

JDRF has been a central player in the discovery and development of GLP-1s for decades,  and funded many studies to better understand this hormone, how it functions, and how it can be used to help people with T1D. JDRF believes semaglutide has tremendous promise to improve glucose control and mitigate heart and kidney complications for individuals in stage 4, or established T1D.

That work continues today. There are several JDRF-funded clinical trials to see how people with established T1D can benefit. This includes research led by Dr. Viral Shah at the Barbara Davis Center at the University of Colorado—and in collaboration with three other leading diabetes centers (Henry Ford Hospital, Iowa Diabetes, and the Oregon Health & Science University)—which is investigating ways semaglutide may benefit people with T1D and obesity who are using artificial pancreas (AP) systems.

There are currently no T1D semaglutide trials active in Canada.

These drugs are also being explored by the JDRF T1D Fund. T1D Fund portfolio company i2O Therapeutics is developing several products leveraging GLP-1s, initially for T2D, including a refillable, implantable GLP-1 device that delivers 6 months’ worth of the hormone, an oral form of long acting GLP-1, as well as a combined oral GLP-1 with Amylin (another important pancreatic hormone).

Additionally, Code Bio, a T1D Fund portfolio company, has explored GLP-1 to target beta cells for targeted drug delivery. 

JDRF Canada will continue to monitor results of GLP-1 studies and report on findings as they become available.