The brightest minds in type 1 diabetes (T1D) research convened at Breakthrough T1D’s emerging leaders in T1D scientific workshop in Charlottesville, Va., Dec. 2-4, 2024, to foster collaboration and accelerate T1D research on the path to better treatments and cures for the disease. Hosted by Breakthrough T1D, formerly JDRF, the leading global T1D research and advocacy organization, this year’s event was generously supported by the Manning Family Foundation and was held on the grounds of the University of Virginia (UVA), future home of the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology.
The scientific workshop is a regular part of Breakthrough T1D’s research program, designed to engage the T1D research community, bring research trainees, academic researchers, and clinician-scientists beginning their independent careers together, and maintain momentum in T1D research. This year’s attendees included 58 researchers representing 38 organizations and eight countries. Key highlights of the event included sessions on cell therapies, early detection of T1D, and disease progression, as well as roundtable discussions and keynote presentations on T1D technology devices and advanced therapies for improving the lives of people living with T1D.
“As the leading type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D invests in the most promising research that will advance life-changing therapies and lead the way to cures for T1D. Building and sustaining the T1D research community and creating space for collaboration through events like this workshop are key to accelerating these efforts,” said Aaron Kowalski, PhD, Breakthrough T1D CEO. “We’re grateful to the University of Virginia for their leadership in T1D research and the Manning Family Foundation for their ongoing commitment to our mission, finding cures for T1D.”
“Developing the next generation of medicine and therapies and getting them in the hands of people around the world who need them requires sustained support for the doctors and researchers who are doing this life-saving work,” said Paul Manning, chairman and CEO of PBM Capital, director and president of the Manning Family Foundation, and member of the board of visitors at the University of Virginia. “Diane and I often talk about what our legacy will be, and we’re proud to be able to play a role in supporting T1D research that will one day lead to cures.”
The University of Virginia has played an important role in the development of T1D therapies and has demonstrated a commitment to T1D research through its Center for Diabetes Technology . Projected to open in 2026, the Paul and Diane Manning Institute for Biotechnology will include T1D as a focus area.
About Breakthrough T1D, Formerly JDRF
As the leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D helps make everyday life with type 1 diabetes better while driving toward cures. We do this by investing in the most promising research, advocating for progress by working with government to address issues that impact the T1D community, and helping educate and empower individuals facing this condition.
About Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
T1D is an autoimmune condition that causes the pancreas to make very little insulin or none at all. This leads to dependence on insulin therapy and the risk of short and long-term complications, which can include highs and lows in blood sugar; damage to the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and heart; and even death. Globally, it impacts nearly 9 million people. Many believe T1D is only diagnosed in childhood and adolescence, but diagnosis in adulthood is common and accounts for nearly 50% of all T1D diagnoses. The onset of T1D has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. While its causes are not yet entirely understood, scientists believe that both genetic factors and environmental triggers are involved. There is currently no cure for T1D.
