Abvance Therapeutics Unveils Groundbreaking Human Data on Insulin-Glucagon Co-Dosing

**Chicago, June 21, 2025** – Abvance Therapeutics, a biotechnology company pioneering advancements in glucagon analogs and therapies, presented critical human clinical data at the 85th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association (ADA), held in Chicago. The findings, showcased in a poster titled "Uncovering the Bidirectional Glucose-Dependent Relationship of Insulin and Glucagon: A Meal-Challenge Study in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes," were articulated by Dr. Guillaume Kraft, Research Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt University.

The study focused on the co-administration of insulin and glucagon in a fixed ratio during mealtime for individuals diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Previous preclinical investigations conducted at Vanderbilt University indicated a nuanced interaction between these two hormones, suggesting that their dominance can fluctuate based on blood glucose levels. Specifically, insulin demonstrated a stronger influence when glucose levels were elevated, while glucagon appeared more potent when glucose levels were diminished.

This human trial, led by Dr. Bruce Bode of Atlanta Diabetes Associates, involved 15 participants with Type 1 diabetes. The results indicated that administering glucagon alongside insulin at a predefined ratio could mitigate the risk of hypoglycemia during the postprandial period—a time when blood sugar levels typically decline. Importantly, the combination was well tolerated by participants and exhibited a favorable safety profile.

Dr. David Maggs, co-founder of Abvance Therapeutics, expressed gratitude towards the research teams, stating, "We are grateful to Dr. Kraft and the research team at Vanderbilt, and to Dr. Bode and his team in Atlanta, for advancing this important translational work. This study provides early human insight into how carefully designed glucagon-insulin combinations may offer a new tool for improving the day-to-day safety of intensive insulin therapy."

The presentation of these initial human data marks a significant advancement in evaluating the co-administration of insulin and glucagon in a real-world context. Abvance Therapeutics remains committed to building upon this foundational research as they advance their pipeline of glucagon-based therapies, which are designed to seamlessly integrate into everyday diabetes management strategies.

Abvance Therapeutics, Inc. is a privately held biotechnology firm rooted in the cutting-edge research from Vanderbilt University. The company is led by a team of experts specializing in diabetes therapeutics, drug development, and health technology. For more information, please visit [www.abvancetherapeutics.com](http://www.abvancetherapeutics.com).

**Historical Context** The understanding of insulin and glucagon's roles in glucose management has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Originally, insulin was primarily seen as the key hormone for lowering blood sugar, while glucagon's role as a counter-regulatory hormone was less emphasized. Recent research, however, has illuminated the intricate balance between these two hormones, particularly in the context of diabetes management. The exploration of their combined administration is a relatively new frontier in therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing glycemic control.

**Current Situation Analysis** According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.6 million Americans are living with Type 1 diabetes, a condition that presents unique challenges in glucose management. Traditional insulin therapies often lead to episodes of hypoglycemia, particularly after meals. The results from Abvance's study suggest a promising alternative that could reduce these risks. As the demand for innovative diabetes therapies grows, the significance of this research cannot be understated.

**Expert Analysis and Commentary** Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of Endocrinology at Johns Hopkins University, commented on the study's implications: "The findings from Abvance Therapeutics provide a compelling argument for re-evaluating our approach to insulin therapy in Type 1 diabetes. The prospect of integrating glucagon into mealtime management could revolutionize our treatment paradigms."

Similarly, Dr. Mark Thompson, a diabetes researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, noted, "This study not only enhances our understanding of glucagon's utility but also underscores the need for more personalized approaches to diabetes care. The potential for improved safety in insulin therapy is exciting."

**Impact Assessment** The introduction of glucagon-insulin combinations could reshape the landscape of diabetes management. From an economic standpoint, reducing hospitalizations due to severe hypoglycemic events could lead to significant savings in healthcare costs. Socially, improved management could enhance the quality of life for those living with Type 1 diabetes.

**International Perspective** Globally, diabetes prevalence is on the rise, with the International Diabetes Federation reporting that approximately 537 million adults were living with diabetes in 2021. As countries grapple with this public health challenge, the advancements made by Abvance Therapeutics may provide valuable insights and potential solutions for healthcare systems worldwide. Countries like the UK and Canada have already initiated discussions on integrating innovative therapies into their diabetes management programs.

**Future Projections** As Abvance Therapeutics continues to refine its glucagon-based therapy, future studies will be crucial in determining long-term efficacy and safety. The results from this initial human trial are expected to pave the way for larger-scale studies and clinical applications, potentially leading to new standards of care in diabetes management.

In conclusion, the recent findings presented by Abvance Therapeutics at the ADA's 85th Scientific Sessions not only contribute to the scientific community's understanding of insulin and glucagon interactions but also herald a new era of treatment possibilities for individuals with Type 1 diabetes.