Dr. Jean Buteau
Testing a Novel Medication to Restore Insulin-Producing Cells
Dr. Jean Buteau and his team at the University of Alberta are investigating a groundbreaking approach to treating Type 1 diabetes. Their work focuses on a specific gene that acts as a "master switch" for the life and death of the cells that produce insulin.
Regenerating Hope for Type 1 Diabetes
“Through the development of an oral drug, this project aims to protect existing beta cells and regenerate those that have been damaged. If successful, this treatment could enable people with diabetes to naturally produce insulin once again. With the project moving into Phase 2 clinical trials, this milestone marks an exciting step toward making this vision a reality.”
For a long time, it was believed that people with Type 1 diabetes completely lost all their pancreatic islet β-cells (the cells responsible for producing insulin). However, recent research shows that many patients actually keep a small number of these cells, even years after diagnosis.
Dr. Buteau’s research aims to use a new medication to protect and grow these remaining cells.
The Science of "Lyn" and Tolimidone
Dr. Buteau identified a gene called Lyn that controls whether beta-cells live or die. His team is now testing a specific drug called Tolimidone, which activates this Lyn gene.
Why this is a breakthrough:
Regenerating Mass: In early lab tests, Tolimidone was shown to reverse diabetes by helping beta-cells survive and regenerate (grow back).
Stopping the Attack: Surprisingly, the drug also appears to promote immune tolerance (helping the immune system stop attacking its own insulin-producing cells).
A "Two-in-One" Solution: This means Tolimidone has the potential to solve the two biggest problems in Type 1 diabetes: replacing lost cells AND stopping the body from destroying them again.
Moving to Human Clinical Trials
Thanks to years of successful lab work and the unwavering support of our donor community, this project has reached a historic milestone: Phase 2 Clinical Trials
This milestone is only possible because of the people who have stood behind the Alberta Diabetes Foundation. Your donations have provided the critical funding needed to navigate the complex path of medical discovery, proving that when a community invests in research, we can move closer to a cure.
Key Objectives:
Phase 2a Clinical Trial: The team has officially started a human trial in Edmonton to test how well Tolimidone works in adults with Type 1 diabetes.
Health Canada Approved: The study received official approval in 2024, and the first participant was enrolled in May 2025.
The Long-Term Aim: If these trials are successful, Tolimidone could become a first-of-its-kind medication that reduces or even eliminates the need for daily insulin injections
Your Support Drives Discovery
The journey to a world without diabetes is a collective effort.
Whether you give $10 or host a golf tournament, you are a vital partner in ADF mission. Discover how you can help the Alberta Diabetes Foundation push the boundaries of what’s possible!
