JDRF T1D Fund

Zucara Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Toronto, Canada, with an additional office in Vancouver. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on developing innovative therapeutics aimed at preventing hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, in patients with diabetes. Its lead pre-clinical technology targets somatostatin type 2 receptors in the pancreas, which are inadequately regulated in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. By blocking these receptors, Zucara's treatment aims to prevent hypoglycemia and restore natural glucose levels in the bloodstream. This approach represents a significant advancement over existing therapies, which typically only address hypoglycemia after it has occurred, rather than preventing it from happening in the first place.

Aspect Biosystems Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Vancouver, Canada, focused on 3D bioprinting and tissue engineering. Founded in 2013, it develops bioprinted tissue therapeutics aimed at transforming disease treatment. The company utilizes proprietary microfluidic 3D bioprinting technology to create physiologically relevant living tissues, allowing for precise control over biomaterial composition and structure during fabrication. Aspect Biosystems offers contract testing services using its 3DAirwayALI human tissue model, catering to pharmaceutical firms and academic institutions engaged in research related to respiratory diseases. Through partnerships with leading researchers and industry innovators, the company aims to address significant challenges in regenerative medicine and advance the understanding of human tissue creation for medical research and therapeutic discovery.